Twinkle Twinkle Star Dessert Bar (Printable)

Buttery shortbread base topped with creamy vanilla frosting and sparkling star sprinkles, a perfect festive treat.

# Ingredient List:

→ Shortbread Base

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
04 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Vanilla Frosting

05 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
06 - 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
07 - 2 tablespoons milk
08 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
09 - Pinch of salt

→ Decoration

10 - 1/4 cup star-shaped sprinkles
11 - Edible glitter or sanding sugar (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
02 - Cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt, mixing until just combined to form a soft dough.
03 - Evenly press the dough into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.
04 - Bake for 22 to 25 minutes until edges turn lightly golden. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
05 - Beat softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy. Add milk, vanilla extract, and salt; beat until fluffy and spreadable.
06 - Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled shortbread base.
07 - Sprinkle star-shaped sprinkles and optionally dust with edible glitter or sanding sugar.
08 - Chill the bars for 15 minutes to set frosting, then lift from pan using parchment overhang and cut into 12 bars.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Buttery shortbread base provides a rich and tender foundation.
  • Creamy vanilla frosting adds a smooth, sweet contrast.
  • Star-shaped sprinkles create festive, eye-catching decoration.
  • Easy to prepare with common ingredients and simple steps.
  • Perfect for parties, celebrations, or as a sweet treat anytime.
02 -
  • Line the baking pan with parchment paper extending beyond the edges to lift the bars out easily.
  • Do not overmix the dough to keep the shortbread tender.
  • Chilling the bars after frosting helps the frosting set and makes cutting cleaner.
  • Use sifted powdered sugar for a smoother frosting texture.
  • Store bars in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
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