Introduction to Cake Batter Bars Buttercream
Let’s be honest—some days, all you need is a little sweetness to turn things around. These Cake Batter Bars Buttercream are like a warm hug on a busy day. They are colorful, easy to make, and will surely bring smiles to your loved ones. Perfect for when you want to whip up a delightful dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. Just imagine the joy of enjoying a creamy layer of buttercream frosting on top of these incredible bars. It’s the kind of treat that can make even the toughest days a little brighter!
Why You’ll Love This Cake Batter Bars Buttercream
These Cake Batter Bars Buttercream are a godsend for busy moms and professionals alike. They come together in just over 40 minutes, making them the perfect quick treat for any occasion. The combination of soft cake and creamy buttercream is simply irresistible! Plus, they’re a hit with kids and adults, so they’re great for family gatherings or playdates. Trust me, they’re bound to become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients for Cake Batter Bars Buttercream
Let’s get started with the ingredients you’ll need for these delightful Cake Batter Bars Buttercream. Each element plays a crucial role in achieving that bright, sweet flavor we all adore. I’ll break down the essentials, so you’ll feel confident as you bake!
- Butter: You’ll need softened butter for both the bars and the frosting. It creates a rich, creamy base that enhances the flavor.
- White Sugar: This is the sweet component that balances the buttery richness. Feel free to use alternative sugars if you’re looking for a lighter option!
- Eggs: Using one whole egg plus an egg yolk not only adds moisture but also contributes to a fudgy texture.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth to your bars. It’s the secret ingredient that brings everything together.
- All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of your cake batter bars. It gives structure and helps them rise.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors. It’s amazing how a little salt can elevate sweetness!
- Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents work in tandem to give your bars that light, fluffy texture.
- Cornstarch: Adding cornstarch helps create a soft and tender crumb, making each bite melt in your mouth.
- White Chocolate Chips: Sweet, creamy, and oh-so-melt-in-your-mouth good, they’re a delightful surprise in each bar.
- Rainbow Sprinkles: These aren’t just for looks! They add a pop of color and a fun crunch that makes these bars a treat for all ages.
- Confectioners’ Sugar: Essential for the buttercream frosting, it provides that sweet, fluffy texture that’s just heavenly.
- Milk: A splash of milk in the frosting makes it spreadable and smooth. You can use plant-based milks if you prefer.
If you’re curious about exact measurements, they’re conveniently listed at the bottom of this article for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Cake Batter Bars Buttercream
Ready to roll up your sleeves? Let’s dive into making these scrumptious Cake Batter Bars Buttercream! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a colorful delight ready in no time.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even bake for your bars. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×9 inch baking pan. Line it with foil and give it a quick spray with non-stick cooking spray. This little step makes it super easy to lift the bars out when they’re done!
Step 2: Creaming the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together your softened butter and white sugar until the texture is smooth and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Next, add in the whole egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Beat until everything is nicely blended—this adds the yummy, rich flavor that you simply can’t resist!
Step 3: Mixing Dry Ingredients
Now it’s time to tackle those dry ingredients! In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cornstarch. Mixing these in a separate bowl ensures that everything gets equally distributed, leading to perfect cake batter consistency. Trust me, it’s worth the extra dish!
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until everything is combined—be careful not to overmix! Overdoing it can lead to dense bars instead of the light, fluffy ones we desire. It should look just combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
Step 5: Add the Sweet Touches
Now for the fun part! Gently fold in the white chocolate chips and rainbow sprinkles. This is what makes these Cake Batter Bars Buttercream so special! The chips will melt just slightly while baking, providing bursts of sweetness, while the sprinkles add that playful touch.
Step 6: Bake the Bars
Press the dough evenly into your prepared pan. Use greased hands to help with this, keeping everything neat and tidy. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-28 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re lightly browned on the edges, and a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let them cool completely before frosting!
Step 7: Make the Buttercream Frosting
Once your bars have cooled, let’s whip up the buttercream frosting. Start by creaming your softened butter until it’s light and fluffy. Gradually add in the confectioners’ sugar, beating well after each addition. Then pour in the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until everything becomes perfectly spreadable and frothy!
Step 8: Frost and Finish
Finally, spread the creamy buttercream generously over the cooled bars. Feel free to go all out with the frosting—it’s so good! If you’re feeling extra festive, sprinkle some more rainbow sprinkles on top. Cut into squares and, voila, your Cake Batter Bars Buttercream are ready to impress!
Tips for Success
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- Use the right baking pan size (9×9 inches) for perfect bars.
- Check bars for doneness a couple of minutes before the timer goes off.
- Cool completely before frosting for the best results.
- Experiment with sprinkles to match any celebration theme!
Equipment Needed
- 9×9 inch baking pan or an 8×8 inch pan (both work well).
- Mixing bowls—one large for wet ingredients and a smaller one for dry.
- Electric mixer or whisk for creaming.
- Spatula for folding in ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons to ensure accuracy.
Variations
- Add a hint of citrus: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the batter for a refreshing twist.
- Nutty addition: Toss in chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for added texture and flavor.
- Healthier option: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a more nutritious version.
- Chocolate lovers: Use chocolate chips instead of white chocolate for a richer taste surprise.
- Gluten-free alternative: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend for a delicious gluten-free treat.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Serve alongside a tall glass of cold milk to complement the sweetness.
- For a fun presentation, arrange on a colorful platter topped with extra sprinkles.
- Consider adding fresh fruit on the side for a refreshing contrast.
FAQs about Cake Batter Bars Buttercream
As a passionate home cook, I find that sharing delicious recipes often comes with the same questions popping up time and again. So, let’s tackle a few common queries about these delightful Cake Batter Bars Buttercream!
Can I make Cake Batter Bars Buttercream ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bars a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just make sure to frost them on the day you plan to serve for the best flavor and texture.
What can I use instead of white chocolate chips?
If you’re not a fan of white chocolate, feel free to substitute milk or dark chocolate chips. You can also use butterscotch or even peanut butter chips for a unique flavor twist!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Cake Batter Bars Buttercream in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, but bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes! These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to indulge!
What should I do if my buttercream is too thick?
If your buttercream frosting turns out too thick, simply add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Just remember, a fluffy buttercream is what we’re aiming for!
Final Thoughts
Every bite of these Cake Batter Bars Buttercream brings back the sweetness of childhood memories—those carefree days filled with laughter and joy. As a busy mom, I cherish recipes like this that bring happiness without demanding hours in the kitchen. The creamy buttercream frosting paired with colorful sprinkles creates not just a treat, but a delightful experience for family gatherings or quiet afternoons. So go ahead, indulge in the joy of baking and share these bars with loved ones. After all, sweet moments are the ones worth savoring the most!
Print
Cake Batter Bars Buttercream
- Total Time: 43 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A sweet and colorful treat, these Cake Batter Bars are topped with a creamy buttercream frosting, making them a delightful dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
- ½ Cup Butter, softened
- ¾ Cup White Sugar
- 1 Egg and 1 Egg Yolk
- 2 Teaspoons Vanilla Extract
- 1 ½ Cups All-Purpose Flour
- ¼ Teaspoon Salt
- 1 Teaspoon Baking Powder
- ½ Teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1 ½ Teaspoons Cornstarch
- 1 Cup White Chocolate Chips
- ½ Cup Rainbow Sprinkles
- ¾ Cup Butter, softened (for frosting)
- 2 ¼ Cups Confectioners’ Sugar
- 3 Tablespoons Milk
- 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract (for frosting)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with foil and spray with non-stick spray. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and cornstarch until fully combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
- Fold in the white chocolate chips and rainbow sprinkles.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan using greased hands. Bake for 25-28 minutes, or until lightly browned. Allow to cool completely.
- Cream butter until smooth. Add milk and vanilla extract, then gradually stir in confectioners’ sugar. Mix until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
- Spread the buttercream evenly over the cooled bars. Top with extra sprinkles if desired.
Notes
- Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
- For a fun presentation, use themed sprinkles to match the occasion.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
