Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars

These Lemon Sugar Cookie Bars are soft, chewy, and bursting with bright citrus flavor. Made in a 9×13-inch pan, they're perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sweet treat at home. The combination of a tender sugar cookie base and a zesty lemon buttercream frosting makes them irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Sugar Cookie Bars:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon lemon extract

• 1½ teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter)

• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
  
  

For the Lemon Buttercream Frosting:

• ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), softened

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1½ teaspoons lemon extract

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional; can substitute with milk)

• A drop of yellow food coloring (optional)
  
  

Instructions

Preparing the Sugar Cookie Bars:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon extract, mixing until well combined.

4. Gradually add the baking powder, salt, and flour, mixing until just incorporated.

5. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.

6. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.

7. Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. The center may appear slightly underdone; it will continue to set as it cools.

8. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
   
   

Preparing the Lemon Buttercream Frosting:

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.

2. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, lemon extract, and lemon juice (or milk). Beat until smooth and fluffy.

3. If desired, add a drop of yellow food coloring for a vibrant hue.

4. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars.

5. Cut into squares and serve.
   
   

Serving Suggestions

This recipe yields approximately 24 bars.
They make a delightful addition to dessert tables, potlucks, or as a sweet treat with afternoon tea.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

• Calories: 210

• Total Fat: 11g

• Saturated Fat: 7g

• Cholesterol: 40mg

• Sodium: 90mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 27g

• Sugars: 18g

• Protein: 1g