Twinkle Twinkle Star Dessert Bar (Printable Page)

Buttery shortbread bars with creamy vanilla topping and sparkling star sprinkles for festive occasions.

# What You'll Need:

→ 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)

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
02 - In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
03 - Add all-purpose flour and salt to the creamed mixture; mix until just combined forming a soft dough.
04 - Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
05 - Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until edges turn lightly golden; allow to cool completely in the pan.
06 - Beat softened butter and sifted powdered sugar together until creamy; add milk, vanilla extract, and salt, then beat until fluffy and spreadable.
07 - Spread frosting evenly over the cooled shortbread base.
08 - Sprinkle star-shaped sprinkles over the frosting, adding edible glitter or sanding sugar if desired.
09 - Chill for 15 minutes to set frosting; lift out using parchment overhang and cut into 12 bars.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Buttery shortbread base provides a tender yet sturdy foundation.
  • Creamy vanilla frosting balances sweetness with smooth texture.
  • Star-shaped sprinkles add festive visual appeal perfect for celebrations.
  • Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it ideal for bakers of all levels.
  • Chills quickly to set, ready to serve for any gathering.
02 -
  • Use parchment paper with an overhang to easily lift the bars from the pan after chilling.
  • Ensure butter is softened but not melted to achieve the perfect shortbread texture.
  • Sift powdered sugar to prevent lumps for a silky smooth frosting.
  • Chill frosting-covered bars well to make cutting cleaner and easier.
  • Check sprinkles ingredients if serving to those with soy or nut allergies.
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