Save Twinkle Twinkle Star Dessert Bars are a delightful treat that bring a touch of whimsy to any occasion. With a rich, buttery shortbread base topped by luscious vanilla frosting and adorned with sparkling star-shaped sprinkles, these bars not only taste heavenly but also look magical. Perfect for parties, celebrations, or simply a sweet moment of joy, this easy American dessert combines simple ingredients and straightforward steps to create a batch of 12 charming bars.
Save This dessert bar captures the essence of celebration with its beautiful presentation and comforting flavors. Whether you’re baking for a special event or an everyday treat, these bars bring joy to every bite with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and vibrant decoration.
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
To add a zesty brightness, gently fold in 1 tsp of finely grated lemon zest to the shortbread dough before pressing it into the pan. For a richer variation, try mixing white chocolate chips into the dough. These simple tweaks can elevate the classic flavor and add a personal twist.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This recipe is vegetarian and can be easily customized. Consider swapping the butter for plant-based alternatives to make it vegan if desired (note: adjustments may be needed for texture). The star-shaped sprinkles can be replaced with other festive decorations to suit holidays or themes.
Serviervorschläge
Twinkle Twinkle Star Dessert Bars pair wonderfully with a glass of sparkling Moscato for adults, or a cold glass of milk for kids. These bars are perfect for after-dinner treats, celebrations, or a charming addition to any dessert platter.
Save With these Twinkle Twinkle Star Dessert Bars, you can bring sparkle and sweetness to your table with ease. Their delightful combination of textures and festive look makes them as enjoyable to share as they are to bake.
Recipe Questions
- → What makes the shortbread base tender?
Using softened unsalted butter creamed with sugar helps create a tender, crumbly texture for the shortbread base.
- → How can I ensure the frosting is smooth and fluffy?
Beat the softened butter thoroughly with powdered sugar before adding milk and vanilla for a creamy, airy frosting.
- → Can I add any flavors to enhance the bars?
A teaspoon of finely grated lemon zest added to the shortbread dough adds a fresh citrus twist.
- → What alternative decorations can I use?
Besides star-shaped sprinkles, edible glitter or sanding sugar can add sparkle and texture to the frosting.
- → How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?
Line the baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal after chilling.