Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter (softened)

4 oz cream cheese (softened)

2 cups sugar

2 large eggs + 1 egg white

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 ½ cups unbleached flour

½ teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup candy corn

For the frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.

Step 3: Add the sugar and mix well until fully combined.

Step 4: Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

Step 6: Gently fold in the candy corn so it’s evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.

Step 8: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. This cooling step is very important to ensure the frosting sets properly.

Step 9: While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting by mixing the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.

Step 10: Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle additional candy corn on top if desired, then cut into squares or bars to serve.

Tips & Variations

For a fun twist, try adding chopped nuts to the dough for extra crunch.

Use a stand mixer to save effort when creaming butter and sugar.

If you want a stronger vanilla flavor, add an extra half teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Substitute candy corn with mini M&Ms or other small candies for different seasonal variations.

FAQs

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

Can I skip the frosting?

Absolutely! These cookie bars are delicious on their own. Frosting adds sweetness and creaminess, but the bars without it are still tasty and a bit less rich.