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Soft Chewy Sugar Cookie Bars with Buttercream Swirl - featured image

Soft Chewy Sugar Cookie Bars with Buttercream Swirl

  • Author: Nadia
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings 1x

Description

These soft, chewy sugar cookie bars are made using a simple hack with cake and sugar cookie mixes, topped with a beautiful vanilla buttercream swirl. They are easy to make, stay soft for days, and are perfect for parties or weeknight treats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box (15.25 oz) yellow cake mix
  • 1 box (17.25 oz) sugar cookie mix
  • ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups (240g) confectioners’ sugar
  • 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon extra granulated sugar
  • Food coloring (optional, gel recommended)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the yellow cake mix and sugar cookie mix.
  3. Add the vegetable oil, egg yolks, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
  4. Transfer the thick, sticky dough to the prepared pan. Press it into an even layer, getting into the corners.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until edges are lightly golden and the center looks set but still soft. Do not overbake.
  6. Let the bars cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes, then cool completely.
  7. While bars cool, beat the softened butter until smooth. Add confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
  8. Dollop frosting randomly over the cooled bars. Use a fork or knife to gently drag through dollops in a zig-zag or circular motion to create a swirl effect.
  9. Sprinkle with extra granulated sugar if desired. Let sit for 15 minutes to set, then cut into squares.

Notes

Do not overbake the bars as they continue to cook on the hot pan. Ensure butter is softened but not melted for the frosting. Sift confectioners’ sugar to avoid lumps. For cleaner cuts, chill the bars in the fridge for 30 minutes before slicing.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 32
  • Sodium: 250
  • Fat: 12
  • Saturated Fat: 5
  • Carbohydrates: 42
  • Protein: 3

Keywords: sugar cookie bars, buttercream swirl, easy dessert, party dessert, chewy cookies, cake mix hack

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Find it online: https://yescook.online/soft-chewy-sugar-cookie-bars-with-buttercream-swirl/