Description
Delight in these festive Eggnog Cookie Bars, a perfect holiday treat combining the rich flavors of eggnog with soft, buttery cookie base topped with creamy eggnog frosting and sparkling sprinkles. Ideal for seasonal gatherings, these bars bake to a golden perfection and are finished with a luscious, smooth frosting that enhances their creamy texture and nostalgic flavor.
Ingredients
Cookie Bars
- 1/2 cup butter, softened (1 stick)
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup eggnog yogurt (or plain Greek yogurt with 1 tablespoon eggnog, stirred)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Frosting
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
- 2 cups icing sugar (powdered sugar), may add up to 1/2 cup more if needed
- 1/4 cup eggnog or milk
- Sprinkles or sparkles for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, sugar, eggnog yogurt, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the baking powder, baking soda, and flour to the butter mixture and mix until the batter is thick and evenly blended.
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, spray lightly with nonstick spray to prevent sticking, then spread the thick batter evenly in the pan.
- Bake the Bars: Bake the pan at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20 minutes, or until the bars are firm to the touch and lightly golden on top.
- Cool Completely: Remove from the oven and allow the cookie bars to cool fully in the pan before frosting to ensure the frosting sets properly.
- Make the Frosting: Using an electric mixer, blend the softened butter, icing sugar, and eggnog (or milk) until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency by adding a little more powdered sugar if needed.
- Frost and Decorate: Spread the frosting generously over the cooled cookie bars, sprinkle with festive sprinkles or sparkles, and then cut into squares to serve.
Notes
- If eggnog yogurt is not available, mix plain Greek yogurt with a tablespoon of eggnog to add flavor.
- Ensure bars are completely cooled before frosting to avoid melting and sliding.
- Use parchment lining and nonstick spray to easily remove bars from the pan without breaking.
- Add sprinkles or edible glitter for a festive, holiday presentation.
- Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
