Save to Pinterest Twinkle Twinkle Star Dessert Bars offer a whimsical twist on classic shortbread, featuring a buttery base topped with smooth vanilla frosting and sparkling star-shaped sprinkles. These charming bars bring a touch of magic to any celebration, making them perfect for parties, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a little sweetness and shine.
Save to Pinterest This recipe strikes the perfect balance between rich, buttery texture and the light sweetness of vanilla frosting. Its straightforward preparation ensures anyone can enjoy baking their own batch of twinkling stars to share and savor.
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 intensify the flavor, try adding 1 tsp of finely grated lemon zest to the shortbread dough before baking. This simple addition offers a refreshing citrus note that complements the buttery texture beautifully.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra richness, consider stirring white chocolate chips into the shortbread dough before pressing it into the pan. You can also swap out the star-shaped sprinkles for other festive decorations to match different occasions or themes.
Serviervorschläge
These dessert bars pair wonderfully with a glass of sparkling Moscato for adults or a simple cold glass of milk for kids. Their bright and festive appearance makes them an ideal centerpiece for any dessert table.
Save to Pinterest With its simple ingredients and cheerful presentation, the Twinkle Twinkle Star Dessert Bar is sure to become a beloved staple at your celebrations. Whether baked for a special event or a cozy treat at home, these bars offer sweetness and sparkle in every bite.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of flour is best for the shortbread base?
All-purpose flour works well to create a tender and crumbly shortbread base that holds together nicely.
- → How can I achieve a smooth vanilla frosting?
Beat softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy, then add milk and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until light and fluffy for a spreadable consistency.
- → Can I add different decorations besides star-shaped sprinkles?
Yes, edible glitter, sanding sugar, or even colored sugar crystals can be used to add sparkle and variety.
- → Is it necessary to chill the bars before cutting?
Chilling for about 15 minutes helps set the frosting, making the bars easier to cut cleanly without smudging.
- → What are some recommended flavor variations?
Adding finely grated lemon zest to the base or stirring in white chocolate chips offers refreshing or richer taste options.