Ingredients
Unsalted Butter, softened
Granulated Sugar
Eggs
Vanilla Extract
All-Purpose Flour
Cocoa Powder
Gel Food Coloring
Buttermilk
Baking Soda
Salt
Cream Cheese (for cream cheese frosting)
Powdered Sugar
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 13×9-inch pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, cream 1 cup softened butter and 1.5 cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, mixing well.
In another bowl, whisk 2.25 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup cocoa powder, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until combined.
Fold in 2 tsp gel food coloring and 2 Tbsp buttermilk. Chill dough 15 minutes if too soft.
Press dough evenly into prepared pan. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until golden.
For frosting: Beat 8 oz cream cheese and 1/2 cup softened butter until smooth. Gradually add 3 cups powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla. Spread over cooled bars. Optional: Press chocolate chips onto frosting before setting.
Notes
Use gel food coloring for vibrant color without altering dough. Substitute vegan butter/cream cheese for dairy-free. Chill dough if sticky. For egg-free, use 2 flax eggs (60g ground flaxseed + 6 Tbsp water). Frosting can be halved for less sweetness. Store in airtight container for 3 days or freeze layers separately.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 22
- Category: Cake Recipes & Easy Baking Ideas
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg