Funfetti Cookie Bars Recipe with Sweet Sprinkles 2024

Name: Funfetti Cookie Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 29 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: – ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; – ½ cup packed brown sugar; – ½ cup granulated sugar; – 1 large egg; – 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; – 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; – 1 teaspoon baking powder; – ½ teaspoon salt; – ½ cup colored sprinkles (jimmies); – ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; – 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; – ¼ teaspoon salt; – 3 ½ cups powdered sugar; – ¼ cup heavy cream; – Sprinkles for topping

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Imagine whipping up a batch of Funfetti Cookie Bars that bring a burst of color and sweetness to your day without much fuss! This recipe is quick and simple, perfect for beginners or busy bakers who want something fun without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll love how these bars combine ease with that delightful pop of sprinkles that makes every bite feel like a party. Oh, and if you’re looking for more sweet ideas, check out my Churro Cheesecake Cookies for another easy favorite.

These bars offer some health perks too, like using ingredients that balance fun with nutrition. For instance, they include elements that can be tweaked for wellness goals, making them a smart choice for anyone watching their diet. Whether you’re a student craving a quick snack or a working professional needing a treat, this recipe fits right in. It’s all about enjoying dessert without the guilt, right?

What really sets Funfetti Cookie Bars apart is their adaptability for all kinds of eaters. You can easily swap things to make them vegan or gluten-free, so they’re great for family gatherings or parties. Their vibrant look and taste make them a hit with kids and adults alike. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your go-to for any occasion!

Picture this: the colorful sprinkles add a joyful twist that brightens up your plate and your mood. This recipe isn’t just about eating; it’s about creating happy moments in the kitchen. Whether you’re baking for holidays or just because, these bars deliver big on flavor and fun. Hey, who doesn’t love a dessert that looks as good as it tastes?

Key Benefits at a Glance

Quick prep time keeps things stress-free.
Easy tweaks for different diets mean everyone can enjoy.
Vibrant flavors make it a fun baking project.
Perfect for sharing with friends and family.

For more inspiration on colorful desserts, you might enjoy my Pecan Cheesecake Pie, which adds a nutty twist to sweet treats.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Funfetti Cookie Bars
2. Essential Ingredients for Funfetti Cookie Bars
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Funfetti Cookie Bars: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Funfetti Cookie Bars
5. Mastering Funfetti Cookie Bars: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Funfetti Cookie Bars: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Funfetti Cookie Bars
8. Funfetti Cookie Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making amazing Funfetti Cookie Bars, and I’ve got everything you need listed out clearly. This recipe keeps things straightforward so you can focus on the fun part baking! Let’s dive into what makes these bars so special, starting with the exact measurements from my tried-and-true method.

Cookie Bars Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup packed brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup colored sprinkles (jimmies)

Frosting Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
3 ½ cups powdered sugar
¼ cup heavy cream
Sprinkles for topping

If you’re new to baking, remember that fresh ingredients make a big difference softened butter mixes like a dream! For special diets, you can swap things around, like using plant-based butter for vegan options. Isn’t it great how flexible this can be?

Beyond the basics, think about how these ingredients come together to create that perfect mix of chewy and sweet. For example, the vanilla extract really brings out the flavors, making every bite pop. If you want to experiment, that’s okay too just keep the measurements spot on.

Ready to get your hands sticky and have some fun? Making Funfetti Cookie Bars is easier than you think, and I’ll walk you through it step by step. Start by preheating your oven, and before you know it, you’ll have a pan of goodies ready to go. Let’s make this baking adventure a breeze!

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13 inch pan with nonstick baking spray.
Beat softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract; beat again.
Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until dough forms.
Gently fold in the colored sprinkles.
Press dough evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 14 to 15 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
For frosting, beat the softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt until creamy.
Slowly mix in the powdered sugar and heavy cream. Beat on high speed until light and creamy.
Spread the frosting over the cooled cookie bars and top with additional sprinkles.
Store frosted bars in a tightly sealed container at room temperature.

The whole process takes just about 29 minutes from start to finish, with 15 minutes for prep and 14 for cooking. I remember the first time I made these, my kitchen smelled amazing it’s like magic in a pan! Keep an eye on the oven so they don’t overbake; nobody wants dry bars.

Once they’re out, let them cool before frosting that’s key to getting that smooth top. If you mess up a step, don’t worry; baking is all about learning as you go. For more tips on perfecting your bakes, check out reliable sources like bar cookie recipes online.

Everyone has their own needs in the kitchen, and Funfetti Cookie Bars are super easy to tweak. Whether you’re going vegan or cutting down on gluten, you can still enjoy these tasty treats. Let’s look at some simple swaps that keep the fun alive.

For protein and main components, try these ideas: Use chia or flaxseed eggs instead of regular eggs for a vegan twist. Swap all-purpose flour with almond flour if you’re avoiding gluten. Coconut oil can replace butter for a plant-based option that still tastes great.

When it comes to veggies, sauces, and seasonings, get creative: Mash up bananas or applesauce to add natural sweetness and moisture. Play with flavors by trying almond extract instead of vanilla. If you want less sugar, skip some sprinkles or add chopped nuts for a healthier crunch.

These changes let you make the recipe your own, and it’s awesome how they turn out just as yummy. I once tried a low-sugar version for a friend, and it was a hit at our gathering!

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, let’s level up your Funfetti Cookie Bars game. A few pro tricks can take your baking from good to wow, and I’ll share what works for me. Chill the dough before baking to keep it from spreading too much and get that perfect thickness.

Use room temperature ingredients so everything mixes evenly it’s a game-changer! For flavor twists, add citrus zest or chocolate chips to mix things up. When it comes to presenting your bars, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze can make them look fancy for parties.

Don’t forget make-ahead options: Mix the batter the night before and pop it in the fridge, or freeze the baked bars for up to three months. That way, you’ve got treats ready whenever you need them. Remember, practice makes perfect, and these tips will have you baking like a pro in no time!

Always use fresh baking powder for the best rise.
Experiment with add-ins like toasted coconut for extra texture.
Let bars rest overnight for even better flavor trust me on this one!

After all that hard work, you want your Funfetti Cookie Bars to stay fresh and tasty. Storing them right is key, so let’s cover the basics. Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week if you need them to last.

For longer storage, wrap them up and freeze for three months it’s easy! When you’re ready to eat, warm them in the microwave or oven to bring back that softness. Meal prep pros will love baking in big batches and portioning them out for quick snacks.

I find that freezing unfrosted bars works best, then frosting them later keeps everything fresh. It’s like having a secret weapon for busy days!

Why is my Funfetti cookie bar dough dry and crumbly?

Dry and crumbly dough often results from using cold butter or insufficient mixing. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before starting. If you’re using a hand mixer, it may take longer for the dough to come together compared to a stand mixer. Continue mixing gently until the dough is cohesive. Avoid adding too much flour, and measure ingredients accurately to prevent dryness.

Can I make Funfetti cookie bars ahead of time?

Yes, Funfetti cookie bars can be made one day in advance. In fact, their flavor and texture often improve after resting overnight, allowing the bars to become more moist and flavorful. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness until ready to serve.

How should I store frosted Funfetti cookie bars to keep them fresh?

Store frosted Funfetti cookie bars in a tightly sealed container at room temperature. This prevents the frosting from drying out and keeps the bars soft. Avoid refrigeration unless your kitchen is very warm, as cooling can harden the frosting and change the texture.

Is it possible to freeze Funfetti cookie bars, and how do I thaw them?

Yes, you can freeze Funfetti cookie bars. For best results, freeze the unfrosted bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the bars overnight at room temperature, then frost and decorate. Frosted bars can also be frozen, but make sure they are well sealed to prevent freezer burn.

What are some tips to get colorful sprinkles evenly distributed in Funfetti cookie bars?

To keep sprinkles evenly spread, gently fold them into the dough at the last step to avoid melting or bleeding colors. Using larger, high-quality sprinkles helps maintain vibrant colors after baking. Avoid overmixing once sprinkles are added, as this can cause them to fade or break down, affecting the visual appeal of your cookie bars.