Twinkle Star Dessert Bar (Print Version)

Buttery shortbread bars with smooth vanilla frosting and star sprinkles, perfect for festive gatherings.

# 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)

# How to Make It:

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 flour and salt to the butter mixture and mix until just combined to form a soft dough.
04 - Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.
05 - Bake for 22 to 25 minutes until edges turn lightly golden. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
06 - Beat softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy. Add milk, vanilla extract, and salt, then beat until fluffy and spreadable.
07 - Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled shortbread base.
08 - Sprinkle star-shaped decorations and optional edible glitter or sanding sugar over the frosting.
09 - Chill for 15 minutes to set the frosting, then lift out using parchment paper and cut into 12 bars.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread base provides the perfect foundation.
  • Creamy vanilla frosting adds a smooth, sweet finish.
  • Star-shaped sprinkles create a fun, festive appearance ideal for parties.
  • Simple ingredients and easy steps make this recipe perfect for bakers of all levels.
02 -
  • Use softened butter (not melted) for the best texture in both dough and frosting.
  • Sift powdered sugar for a smoother frosting without lumps.
  • Decorate immediately after frosting to ensure sprinkles adhere well.
  • Chilling bars helps maintain clean edges when cutting.
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