Sugar Cookie Fudge Bar Recipe for the Holidays

There’s something magical about the holidays that calls for indulgent, comforting sweets—and these Sugar Cookie Fudge Bars deliver just that. Imagine a buttery sugar cookie base layered with rich, creamy fudge, creating a melt-in-your-mouth dessert that’s perfect for Christmas parties, gifting, or simply cozy evenings by the fire.

Whether you’re planning a holiday cookie exchange, assembling a dessert tray, or looking for a sweet homemade gift, these bars are an absolute crowd-pleaser. Their delightful contrast of textures and festive appearance make them a standout among holiday treats.

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What Makes These Sugar Cookie Fudge Bars So Special?

The beauty of these bars lies in the layers. The bottom is a buttery, tender sugar cookie crust—slightly crisp on the edges but soft in the middle—giving you that nostalgic cookie flavor in every bite. On top is a luscious, creamy fudge layer, smooth and sweet with just a hint of vanilla, making every mouthful irresistible.

This dessert strikes a perfect balance of textures and flavors:

• Buttery base: Classic sugar cookie goodness with a firm but tender crumb.

• Creamy fudge topping: Smooth and silky, providing richness without being overly sweet.

• Festive flair: Sprinkles or holiday-themed decorations add a cheerful pop of color.

• Versatility: Serve them as bars, cut bite-size for parties, or pack them up for gifting.

The combination of a cookie base and fudge topping is a winning one, offering a sophisticated yet approachable holiday treat anyone can enjoy.

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Ingredients Needed for Sugar Cookie Fudge Bars

Before you start, gather these simple yet delicious ingredients:

For the Sugar Cookie Base:

• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 2 ½ cups (312 g) all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Fudge Layer:

• 12 oz (340 g) white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

For Decoration:

• Holiday-themed sprinkles or colored sugar (optional)

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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sugar Cookie Fudge Bars

Preparing the Sugar Cookie Base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.

3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the dough tender.

6. Press the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing it out with your hands or a spatula.

7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the center is set. The base will firm up more as it cools.

8. Remove from the oven and allow the base to cool completely while you prepare the fudge topping.

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Making the Creamy Fudge Topping

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the white chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, and butter over low heat.

2. Stir constantly until the chocolate and butter have melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. Avoid boiling.

3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

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Assembling the Bars

1. Once the cookie base is fully cooled, pour the fudge mixture evenly over it, spreading gently with a spatula to cover the surface.

2. Sprinkle festive holiday sprinkles or colored sugar on top while the fudge is still warm, pressing them lightly to adhere.

3. Chill the entire pan in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or until the fudge topping is firm.

4. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife for clean edges.

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Tips for Perfect Sugar Cookie Fudge Bars

• Don’t skip chilling: The fudge needs time to set properly. Chilling ensures clean cutting and the perfect texture.

• Softened butter matters: For the cookie base, make sure butter is softened, not melted, to create the ideal crumb.

• Use good quality white chocolate: It makes a big difference in smoothness and flavor.

• Customize your toppings: Try crushed peppermint, colored sugar, or edible glitter for an extra festive touch.

• Cut with a warm knife: Run your knife under hot water and dry it before slicing for cleaner cuts.

• Make ahead: These bars keep well refrigerated for up to a week and freeze beautifully for longer storage.

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How to Serve and Store

These bars shine on dessert tables, party trays, or packaged as edible gifts.

• Serving: Arrange bars on a festive platter with other cookies and treats. They’re a perfect portion size for guests.

• Storing: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

• Freezing: Freeze in a single layer, wrapped tightly, for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Can I use milk chocolate or dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?
For this recipe, white chocolate complements the sugar cookie flavor best, but you can experiment with other chocolates for a richer, deeper flavor.

What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk?
Sweetened condensed milk is key for the fudge’s creamy texture. Avoid substitutes as they may affect consistency and sweetness.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts like pecans or dried cranberries add nice texture and flavor contrast in the fudge layer or base.

Is this recipe suitable for gifting?
Definitely! These bars are festive, easy to package in boxes or cellophane bags with ribbons, making them excellent edible gifts.

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Why These Sugar Cookie Fudge Bars Are a Holiday Must-Have

This recipe offers the perfect balance of nostalgic holiday flavors with the ease of a layered bar dessert. The buttery sugar cookie base paired with creamy fudge topping makes for a luxurious treat that’s not overly sweet and utterly satisfying. Their festive look and make-ahead convenience ensure they’ll quickly become a holiday staple whether you’re hosting or gifting.

Ready to create some magic? These Sugar Cookie Fudge Bars are waiting to delight your friends and family this holiday season!