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Two chewy Valentine's Day sugar cookie bars stacked on a plate, topped with creamy pink frosting and heart-shaped sprinkles.

Valentine's Day Cookie Bars (Easy & Chewy Recipe)

The best Valentine's Day Cookie Bars are soft, chewy, and topped with a sweet cream cheese frosting. This easy recipe is perfect for parties and sharing with loved ones!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 24 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210

Ingredients
  

  • 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 0.5 tsp Baking Powder
  • 0.5 tsp Salt
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter softened
  • 1.5 cups Granulated Sugar
  • 1 Large Egg at room temperature
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 0.5 tsp Almond Extract
  • 4 oz Cream Cheese softened
  • 0.25 cup Unsalted Butter softened
  • 2 cups Powdered Sugar
  • 0.5 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 0.25 cup Valentine's Sprinkles

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch baking pan
  • 1 Electric mixer
  • 2 Mixing bowls

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with a mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add the egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and almond extract. Beat until well combined.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
  6. Evenly press the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
  7. Let the cookie bars cool completely in the pan before frosting.
  8. To make the frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until fluffy. Stir in the remaining 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.
  9. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars and top with Valentine's sprinkles.

Notes

Ensure all dairy ingredients (butter, egg, cream cheese) are at room temperature for the best results.
Do not overbake the cookie bars to keep them soft and chewy.
Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent a melted mess.