Vegan Sugar Cookie Bars with Frosting Recipe

Nothing quite beats the cozy, sweet aroma of freshly baked sugar cookies, right? But here’s the twist—my Vegan Sugar Cookie Bars with Frosting Recipe transforms those classic cookies into soft, chewy bars topped with luscious vegan buttercream. It’s easier and more fun than rolling out tiny cookies, and trust me, everyone will want the recipe.

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Jump to:

• Why You'll Love This Recipe
• Ingredients & Why They Work
• Make It Your Way
• Step-by-Step: How I Make Vegan Sugar Cookie Bars with Frosting Recipe
• Top Tip
• How to Serve Vegan Sugar Cookie Bars with Frosting Recipe
• Make Ahead and Storage
• Frequently Asked Questions:
• Final Thoughts
• Vegan Sugar Cookie Bars with Frosting Recipe

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Vegan Sugar Cookie Bars with Frosting Recipe plays a role in achieving that perfect texture and classic flavor. It’s not complicated—just a few thoughtful staples that come together beautifully. Here’s a quick peek at why each one makes a difference and some tips for picking them out.

• Vegan Butter: Softened at room temp to ensure a creamy batter and tender crumb, plus that buttery flavor we all crave.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with browning for those golden edges.
• Almond Milk: Adds moisture without overpowering—the subtle nuttiness blends seamlessly.
• Cornstarch: This little secret keeps the bars soft and gives a slight melt-in-your-mouth quality.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Essential for that warm, nostalgic flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: The perfect base for structure without heaviness.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Work together to give a gentle lift and light texture.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Powdered Sugar (for frosting): Creates that smooth, sweet finish you want atop every bar.
• Food Coloring & Sprinkles: Totally optional but tons of fun for personalizing your bars.

Make It Your Way

I love making this Vegan Sugar Cookie Bars with Frosting Recipe my own by tweaking frosting colors or sprinkling festive toppings. You can easily swap almond milk for oat or soy, or even add a splash of lemon zest to brighten up the dough—whatever makes it feel like your kitchen!

• Variation: Once, I added a hint of cinnamon to the dough, and it gave the bars a cozy warmth that was perfect for fall. Feel free to experiment with spices or even mini chocolate chips for a fun twist.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Vegan Sugar Cookie Bars with Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Vegan Butter and Sugar

Start by beating your softened vegan butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes with a handheld mixer or stand mixer. Getting this right is key to that light texture in your bars, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Mix in the almond milk and pure vanilla extract next, stirring just until combined. This keeps things moist and carries that lovely vanilla flavor throughout.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients Separately

Whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Combining your dry ingredients beforehand prevents clumps and ensures an even rise.

Step 4: Fold Dry Ingredients into Wet

Slowly add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients, folding until just combined. Overmixing here can toughen your bars, so gentle is the way to go.

Step 5: Bake the Cookie Bars

Spread the dough evenly into a lined 9x9-inch pan, smoothing the top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until edges are golden but the center still looks slightly soft—this keeps the bars chewy.

Step 6: Whip Up the Frosting

While the bars cool, mix the softened vegan butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and almond milk until creamy and smooth. Add a few drops of vegan-friendly food coloring if you want some pretty pops of color.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate

Once the bars are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top. I like to finish with sprinkles for a festive touch—go wild here, it’s your moment!

How to Serve Vegan Sugar Cookie Bars with Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

I usually stick to bright vegan sprinkles because they bring that joyful crunch and color contrast. Sometimes I dust a little edible glitter or even top with crushed freeze-dried raspberries for a tangy bite—it’s all about making these bars feel festive and eye-catching.

Side Dishes

These bars pair beautifully with a cup of hot herbal tea or a glass of cold oat milk. For parties, I also like serving fresh fruit or dairy-free whipped cream alongside to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve tried layering these bars in a clear trifle bowl with alternating layers of berries and whipped coconut cream for a stunning dessert centerpiece. Wrapped individually in parchment with colorful ribbon, they also make adorable homemade gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If your kitchen is warm, storing them in the fridge is fine—just bring them to room temp before enjoying so the frosting isn't too firm.

Freezing

These bars freeze wonderfully! I cut them into squares, freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then store in a zip-top bag. When you're ready, thaw at room temperature and add a fresh layer of frosting if needed for that extra homemade touch.

Reheating

If you want to warm your bars, pop one in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. It softens the crumb nicely but watch out—too long and the frosting melts. I usually reapply frosting after reheating for the tastiest treat.

Final Thoughts

Sharing this Vegan Sugar Cookie Bars with Frosting Recipe feels like passing along a little slice of joy. It’s an easy bake that always brings smiles and proves vegan treats can be just as indulgent and charming as any classic dessert. So grab your mixing bowl, invite a friend, and bake these bars that are sure to become a new favorite—just like they did for me.

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