Save Celebrate any special occasion with Twinkle Twinkle Star Dessert Bars, a whimsical treat that combines a rich, buttery shortbread base with a smooth vanilla frosting topped with sparkling star-shaped sprinkles. These festive bars are easy to prepare and bring a touch of magic to parties and celebrations.
Save This crowd-pleasing dessert bar shines with simplicity and charm. Whether for a holiday party, birthday, or just a fun treat, the combination of textures and flavors will delight all ages. Plus, the recipe offers room to customize with optional add-ins and decorations.
Ingredients
- Shortbread Base
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Vanilla Frosting
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Decoration
- 1/4 cup (40 g) star-shaped sprinkles
- Edible glitter or sanding sugar (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- 2. In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar for the shortbread base until light and fluffy.
- 3. Add flour and salt; mix until just combined and a soft dough forms.
- 4. Press dough evenly into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- 5. Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely in the pan.
- 6. For the frosting, beat together softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy. Add milk, vanilla, and salt; beat until fluffy and spreadable.
- 7. Spread frosting evenly over cooled shortbread base.
- 8. Decorate with star-shaped sprinkles and a touch of edible glitter or sanding sugar if desired.
- 9. Chill for 15 minutes to set frosting, then lift out of the pan and cut into bars.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For a lemony twist, add 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest to the shortbread base dough before pressing it into the pan. This adds a fresh and tangy note that complements the vanilla frosting.
Varianten und Anpassungen
White chocolate chips can be gently folded into the shortbread dough to add pockets of sweetness and extra richness, making these bars even more indulgent.
Serviervorschläge
These dessert bars pair wonderfully with a glass of sparkling Moscato for adults or a cold glass of milk for kids, enhancing the festive experience.
Save Once you've mastered these Twinkle Twinkle Star Dessert Bars, you'll find they're a go-to treat for festive occasions and everyday indulgence alike. Their charming presentation and delicious flavor will keep everyone coming back for more.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of butter is best for the shortbread base?
Use unsalted, softened butter to control the salt level and achieve a tender, flaky texture.
- → Can I add any flavor variations to the shortbread?
Yes, finely grated lemon zest adds a bright citrus note, or white chocolate chips can be folded into the dough for richness.
- → How should I decorate the bars for a festive look?
Star-shaped sprinkles and edible glitter or sanding sugar create a whimsical and sparkling finish perfect for celebrations.
- → What is the best way to achieve creamy frosting consistency?
Beat softened butter with powdered sugar thoroughly, then gradually add milk and vanilla extract until fluffy and spreadable.
- → How long do the bars need to chill before serving?
Chilling for about 15 minutes helps the frosting to set nicely, making the bars easier to cut and serve.