Save to Pinterest The Twinkle Twinkle Star Dessert Bar is a delightful treat that combines a rich, buttery shortbread base with a luscious vanilla frosting, all topped with shimmering star-shaped sprinkles. Perfect for celebrations or simply brightening up your day, these bars are as charming to look at as they are delicious to eat. Easy to make and wonderfully satisfying, they bring a touch of whimsy to any dessert table.
Save to Pinterest This classic American dessert has a lovely balance of textures and flavors that make it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're baking for a kid's birthday, holiday gathering, or just because, these bars are sure to bring smiles and compliments.
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
Make sure the butter is fully softened for easy creaming with the sugar. Use parchment paper with an overhang to lift the bars out without breaking. Allow the shortbread to cool completely before frosting to keep the frosting smooth and intact.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lemony twist, add 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest to the shortbread base. White chocolate chips can be stirred into the dough before baking for extra richness and texture.
Serviervorschläge
Pair these dessert bars with a glass of sparkling Moscato for a light, celebratory touch. For children or a simple pairing, serve alongside a cold glass of milk.
Save to Pinterest These Twinkle Twinkle Star Dessert Bars bring a playful sparkle to traditional shortbread, making them a favorite for any occasion that calls for a little extra magic on the dessert table.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What makes the shortbread base tender?
Softened unsalted butter creamed with sugar creates a tender, crumbly texture when mixed with flour.
- → How can I add a citrus twist to this dessert?
Mix in a teaspoon of finely grated lemon zest into the shortbread dough for a fresh citrus note.
- → What is the best way to spread the vanilla frosting evenly?
Use a spatula to gently smooth the creamy frosting over the completely cooled shortbread base for even coverage.
- → Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, adjusting for texture as needed.
- → How long should these bars be chilled before serving?
Chill for at least 15 minutes to allow the frosting to set, making the bars easier to cut and serve.