Description

These soft and chewy vanilla bean sugar cookie bars are a quick, fuss-free homemade treat with simple pantry ingredients, perfect for sharing or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon pure vanilla bean paste
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Optional add-ins: 1 cup chocolate chips or chunks, 1/2 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts), 1/2 cup dried cranberries or cherries

Instructions

Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until pale, fluffy, and smooth, about 3-5 minutes.
Add the egg and vanilla bean paste; beat until fully combined, scraping down the sides.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until no flour streaks remain.
Spread the dough evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan using a spatula.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until edges are golden and the center is set but still soft to the touch. Let cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Notes

Use real vanilla bean paste for best flavor and visible specks. Do not overbake to keep bars soft and chewy. Line pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean slices. Bars keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. Reheat briefly in microwave to soften if needed. Optional add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit can be folded in before baking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar (if sliced int
Calories: 180
Sugar: 14
Sodium: 85
Fat: 8
Saturated Fat: 5
Carbohydrates: 24
Fiber: 0.5
Protein: 2

Keywords: vanilla bean sugar cookie bars, soft sugar cookie bars, easy sugar cookie bars, homemade sugar cookie bars, chewy sugar cookie bars, vanilla cookie bars