Save Twinkle Twinkle Star Dessert Bars are a delightful treat that bring a touch of whimsy to any gathering. These buttery shortbread bars are perfectly complemented by a creamy vanilla frosting and sparkling star-shaped sprinkles, making them an irresistible choice for parties and celebrations. Easy to make and sure to impress, they transform simple ingredients into a festive masterpiece.
Save With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can create these charming dessert bars. Their festive look makes them ideal for birthdays, holidays, or whenever you want to add a little magic to your dessert table.
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. Make the shortbread base.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt; mix until just combined and a soft dough forms.
- 3. Prepare to bake.
- Press dough evenly into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- 4. Bake.
- Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely in the pan.
- 5. Make the frosting.
- Beat together softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy. Add milk, vanilla, and salt; beat until fluffy and spreadable.
- 6. Frost the bars.
- Spread frosting evenly over cooled shortbread base.
- 7. Decorate.
- Top with star-shaped sprinkles and a touch of edible glitter or sanding sugar if desired.
- 8. Chill and serve.
- Chill for 15 minutes to set frosting, then lift out of the pan and cut into bars.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Carefully pressing the dough evenly into the pan ensures a uniform bake and smooth surface for frosting. Allowing the shortbread to cool completely before frosting prevents melting and keeps the bars neat. For best results, use softened butter at room temperature to achieve a creamy frosting consistency.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a fresh twist, stir 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest into the shortbread base dough. You can also mix white chocolate chips into the dough for added richness and texture. Adjust sprinkles and decorations to match your celebration's theme or personal taste.
Serviervorschläge
These dessert bars pair wonderfully with a glass of sparkling Moscato for adults or a cold glass of milk for children. Serve chilled to keep the frosting firm and enjoy as a festive treat any time.
Save Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet indulgence, these Twinkle Twinkle Star Dessert Bars deliver joy in every bite. Their charming appearance and buttery flavor make them a beloved addition to any dessert spread.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of flour is best for the shortbread base?
All-purpose flour is ideal to achieve a tender and crumbly texture suitable for shortbread bars.
- → How can I make the frosting smooth and creamy?
Beating softened butter with sifted powdered sugar until fluffy, then adding milk and vanilla gradually, helps create a spreadable, creamy frosting.
- → Can I add flavors to the shortbread base?
Yes, incorporating finely grated lemon zest or stirring in white chocolate chips enhances the flavor and richness.
- → What is the best way to prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?
Lining the pan with parchment paper plus an overhang allows easy removal of bars without sticking.
- → How long should the bars chill before slicing?
Chilling the bars for about 15 minutes sets the frosting and ensures clean cuts when slicing.