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Delicious homemade vanilla bars with a rich, creamy texture and sweet flavor.

Vanilla Bars

Soft, chewy dessert bars made with simple ingredients, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Nothing fancy, just regular flour.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature Room temperature is important for proper mixing.
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract Use real vanilla for best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Ensure it is fresh for proper rising.
  • ¼ teaspoon salt Adjust if using salted butter.
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated. Then add the vanilla extract.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two changes, mixing on low or folding gently until just combined.
  6. Scrape the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
  8. Let the bars cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar and slice into squares.

Notes

These bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving. Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles for variations.