Get ready to be the star of your Independence Day celebration with these mouthwatering Fourth of July Cookie Bars! Imagine a dessert that combines the perfect blend of soft, buttery cookie base and festive red and blue sprinkles that scream American pride. These easy-to-make bars are not just a treat for your taste buds, but a visual spectacle that will have everyone at your party asking for the recipe. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or attending a potluck, these cookie bars are guaranteed to be the most Instagram-worthy dessert of the summer!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup red and blue sprinkles
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Gently fold in the red and blue sprinkles, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Transfer the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a smooth, flat surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour.
- Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the cookie bars out of the pan and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into 24 even rectangular bars using a sharp knife.
- Serve and enjoy your festive Fourth of July Cookie Bars!
Tips
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for the smoothest, creamiest mixture.
- Don't overmix the dough - this can lead to tough, dense cookie bars.
- Use fresh, high-quality sprinkles for the most vibrant color and festive look.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, neat edges.
- For extra patriotic flair, consider adding a light drizzle of white chocolate or vanilla glaze on top.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- For a fun variation, try using different holiday sprinkle mixes for other celebrations throughout the year!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 25mg
