Introduction
There is something special about seasonal baking. The colors, the flavors, the excitement in the kitchen, and the memories that come with it all make it feel more joyful. One dessert that perfectly captures the fun of spring and Easter is Peeps sugar cookie bars. These colorful cookie bars combine everything we love about a classic sugar cookie with the whimsical charm of marshmallow Peeps. They are soft, sweet, and topped with colorful decorations that make them just as pretty to look at as they are delicious to eat.
This recipe is incredibly simple and does not require any fancy baking skills. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a complete beginner, you can make these bars without any stress. The dough comes together quickly, the baking is straightforward, and decorating is where the fun really begins. This recipe is also family friendly. It is a great baking project to do with kids who will love placing the Peeps on top and adding sprinkles.
These sugar cookie bars are ideal for holidays like Easter, spring picnics, birthday parties, or any gathering where you want a dessert that stands out. Because the base is a soft sugar cookie, you also get that buttery vanilla flavor that everyone loves. You can serve them at room temperature, wrap them up for gifts, or stack them on a dessert tray for a bright and festive presentation.
Another reason this recipe works so well is because it is easy to customize. You can change the colors, the type of frosting, and even add extra ingredients like chocolate chips or fruit bits. It is a dessert that looks impressive but takes minimal effort. With a little preparation and creativity, you can whip up a batch of Peeps sugar cookie bars that will have everyone asking for seconds.
If you are ready to bring color and flavor to your dessert table, this recipe is the perfect place to start. Keep reading to find the full list of ingredients, step-by-step instructions, customization tips, and more.
Ingredients Needed
To make these cheerful sugar cookie bars, you only need a handful of basic baking ingredients along with Peeps marshmallow candies. Most of these are likely already in your pantry, and the Peeps are easy to find during the spring season. If you are baking outside the Easter season, you can substitute with any colorful marshmallow candy or even gummy treats.
Below is a table listing each ingredient along with an approximate calorie count to help you track nutrition if needed.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 1 cup (2 sticks) | 1600 |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | 775 |
| Large eggs | 2 | 140 |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons | 25 |
| All-purpose flour | 2 and 1/2 cups | 1140 |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon | 2 |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | 0 |
| Peeps marshmallow candies | 10 to 12 pieces | 340 |
| Sprinkles (optional) | 2 tablespoons | 100 |
| Frosting (store-bought or homemade) | 1 cup | 1000 |
Total estimated calories for the full batch: about 5100
Estimated calories per serving (1 bar if sliced into 16 pieces): 320
These ingredients come together to create a soft, chewy sugar cookie base that holds its shape and flavor. You can use store-bought frosting to save time, or whip up a quick homemade version using butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla. The Peeps are added after baking, giving the bars a fun and festive look.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
This recipe is designed to be easy and approachable. You do not need any special tools beyond a mixing bowl and a baking pan. Follow these steps to create your sugar cookie bars.
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a 9 by 13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This will make it easier to remove the bars once they have cooled.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Mix on medium speed for about 2 to 3 minutes or until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color. This step helps create a tender cookie texture.
Add the eggs one at a time and mix well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract and stir until combined. Set this bowl aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix the dough, just stir until everything is incorporated.
Transfer the dough to your prepared baking pan. Press it evenly into the pan using a spatula or your hands. Try to create a smooth and level surface so the bars bake evenly.
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it after the 20-minute mark. The edges should look lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. Do not add the frosting or Peeps until the bars are fully cooled. This prevents melting and keeps the decorations intact.
Once cooled, spread a layer of frosting evenly over the top. Then gently press the Peeps onto the frosted surface in whatever arrangement you like. Finish with sprinkles if desired. Slice into squares and enjoy.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
This recipe is very flexible, which makes it fun to play around with different variations. If you want to give it a personal twist, here are some simple ideas to get started.
You can switch out the type of frosting. Try cream cheese frosting for a tangy flavor or use a chocolate frosting if you want to balance the sweetness of the Peeps. You can even color your frosting with a few drops of food coloring to match your theme.
If you want to add texture, mix in chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or dried fruit into the dough before baking. This adds some extra flavor and makes each bite more interesting.
For a gluten free version, use a one to one gluten free flour blend. Make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten free as well. The texture may vary slightly, but the bars will still be soft and flavorful.
You can also change the decorations depending on the season. Use different colored Peeps for various holidays or swap them for gummy worms or candy hearts. Sprinkles in seasonal shapes also make a big difference.
Nutritional Information
Knowing what goes into your treats can help you make mindful choices. Here is the approximate nutritional breakdown for one sugar cookie bar, based on a batch divided into 16 servings.
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 16 grams
- Saturated Fat: 9 grams
- Carbohydrates: 43 grams
- Sugars: 27 grams
- Protein: 2 grams
- Fiber: Less than 1 gram
- Sodium: 150 milligrams
These bars are a dessert, so they are best enjoyed in moderation. However, they can easily be part of a balanced treat menu, especially during celebrations.
Serving Suggestions
These sugar cookie bars are best served at room temperature. Arrange them on a decorative platter with fresh fruit or a cup of coffee or tea on the side. If you are preparing them for a party, stack them in a clear dessert box and tie with a ribbon for a beautiful homemade gift.
You can also wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or parchment paper and include them in lunchboxes for a sweet surprise. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate or freeze them and thaw before serving.
Conclusion
Peeps sugar cookie bars are a cheerful and delicious dessert that brings fun to any celebration. They are easy to make, full of color, and guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Whether you are baking for Easter, springtime events, or just craving something sweet, these bars are always a hit.
You do not need to be an expert to make these bars look and taste amazing. With simple steps, customizable ingredients, and creative toppings, you can turn ordinary sugar cookie dough into something unforgettable. Try them out today and bring a little extra sweetness into your life.