Twinkle Star Dessert Bar (Printable)

Buttery shortbread base with creamy vanilla frosting and festive star sprinkles for any celebration.

# 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)

# Step-by-Step Guide:

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 creamed mixture; combine until just mixed and a soft dough forms.
04 - Evenly press dough into the lined pan and smooth the surface with a spatula.
05 - Bake for 22–25 minutes until edges turn lightly golden. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
06 - Beat softened butter and powdered sugar together until creamy. Add milk, vanilla extract, and salt; beat until fluffy and spreadable.
07 - Spread frosting evenly over the cooled shortbread base.
08 - Sprinkle star-shaped decorations over the frosting and add edible glitter or sanding sugar as desired.
09 - Chill for 15 minutes to set the frosting. Lift from the pan using parchment overhang and cut into 12 bars.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Easy to make with a simple buttery shortbread base and creamy frosting.
  • Perfectly festive with star-shaped sprinkles that add sparkle and fun.
  • Vegetarian-friendly and ideal for any occasion, from parties to casual treats.
  • Bright vanilla frosting complements the buttery base for a balanced sweetness.
02 -
  • Line the baking pan with parchment paper overhang for easy removal of the bars after chilling.
  • Use an electric mixer for creaming butter and sugar to achieve the ideal fluffy texture.
  • Chill the bars after decorating to help the frosting set firmly before slicing.
  • Check sprinkles for allergen information to ensure safety for all guests.
Go back