Butter bars are a rich, decadent dessert that’s easy to make from scratch. These bars have a buttery, chewy base, and are often topped with a golden, crisp finish. Here’s a simple Butter Bars from Scratch recipe:
Butter Bars from Scratch
Ingredients:
For the Base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Topping (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (to reach desired consistency)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Butter Bar Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined and a dough forms.
- Bake the Bars:
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.
- Cool and Add Topping (Optional):
- Allow the butter bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes before cutting into squares or rectangles.
- If you want to add a topping, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled butter bars.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Cut into squares or bars, and enjoy the buttery goodness of these homemade treats!
These Butter Bars from Scratch are perfect for an indulgent snack or dessert and are easy to make for any occasion.
