Halloween Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars are one of my favorite festive treats to make during spooky season. I love how they combine the soft, chewy texture of a sugar cookie with a thick layer of creamy frosting, all dressed up with Halloween sprinkles. They’re easy to bake in one pan, simple to decorate, and perfect for parties or handing out as a fun homemade treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it’s much quicker than rolling and cutting individual sugar cookies, but still delivers the same soft, sweet flavor I love. The bars come out thick, buttery, and tender, and the frosting makes them extra festive. I also like that I can decorate them any way I want—with orange, purple, or black frosting and plenty of Halloween sprinkles.

Ingredients

For the Sugar Cookie Bars:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Orange or purple food coloring
Halloween sprinkles

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Sugar Cookie Bars:
I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, I cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
I beat in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract.
In another bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt, then gradually mix it into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
I spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
I bake for 20–25 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. I let the bars cool completely before frosting.

Make the Frosting:
I beat the butter until creamy, then gradually add powdered sugar.
I mix in milk and vanilla until smooth and fluffy.
I tint the frosting with food coloring, then spread it evenly over the cooled cookie bars.
I top with Halloween sprinkles and slice into squares or rectangles.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 24 bars. Prep time is 15 minutes, bake time is 25 minutes, and frosting takes another 15 minutes, so they’re ready in about 55 minutes.

Variations

I like to:

• Make a black-and-orange swirl frosting for extra Halloween flair.

• Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for extra richness.

• Use candy eyes, candy corn, or themed decorations on top instead of just sprinkles.

Storage/reheating

I store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. These bars don’t need reheating, but I let chilled bars come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?

Yes, I bake the bars a day ahead and frost them right before serving.

Can I freeze Halloween Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars?

Yes, I freeze the unfrosted bars for up to 2 months, then thaw and frost when ready.

Can I use store-bought frosting?

Yes, but I prefer homemade frosting for a fresher taste.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, I substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and they come out delicious.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I bake them in a half-sheet pan and extend the baking time slightly.

Conclusion

Halloween Frosted Sugar Cookie Bars are a festive, colorful, and delicious dessert that I love making for spooky season. They’re soft, buttery, and topped with creamy frosting and sprinkles, making them a crowd-pleaser at parties or a fun baking project at home. These bars bring all the sweetness and spirit of Halloween in every bite.

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