Introducing the Light and Festive Sugar Cookie Bars, a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie that's not only easy to make but also lighter on calories. These bars feature a soft, chewy base made with almond flour and light butter, topped with a silky cream cheese icing. With each square packing 5g of protein and fewer calories than traditional sugar cookies, these bars are the perfect treat for anyone looking to enjoy the festive season without overindulging. Whether you're in need of a festive snack or a pre-workout boost, these sugar cookie bars are sure to satisfy.
Why You'll Love This:
The combination of ease, taste, and nutritional consciousness makes these sugar cookie bars a must-try. The use of light butter and almond flour results in a dessert that feels indulgent without the heaviness of typical sugar cookies. The cream cheese icing adds just the right touch of sweetness, making these bars a balanced and guilt-free option for holiday indulgence or any time you're craving something sweet.
Perfect Occasion:
These sugar cookie bars are ideal for holiday parties, offering a festive and healthier alternative to traditional desserts. They're also great as a treat to enjoy with your family while decorating the house or wrapping gifts. For the fitness enthusiasts, these bars make a fantastic pre-workout snack, providing enough energy and protein to fuel your session.
Decoration Tips:
To add a festive touch, garnish the cream cheese icing with sprinkles in holiday colors, crushed nuts for a bit of crunch, or fresh berries for a pop of color and tartness. If you're feeling creative, use cookie cutters to shape the bars into holiday symbols like trees, stars, or snowflakes, making them not only delicious but also a delightful addition to your holiday spread.
- Ingredients for Sugar Cookie Base:
- 1/2 cup light butter, softened
- 2/3 cup no-calorie sugar substitute
- 1 egg + 2 tablespoons egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For Cream Cheese Icing:
- 4 ounces light cream cheese
- 3/4 cup no-calorie powdered sugar substitute
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the light butter and sugar substitute until smooth. Beat in the eggs and vanilla.
- Gradually add in the almond flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
- Spread the dough evenly in the prepared dish, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden.
- Allow the bars to cool completely, then top with the cream cheese icing.
Enjoy these Light and Festive Sugar Cookie Bars, a delightful treat that proves you can partake in the holiday cheer without compromising on your dietary preferences. These bars are sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart this festive season.