# 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)
# Method:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
02 - In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
03 - Add all-purpose flour and salt to the creamed mixture; mix until just combined, forming a soft dough.
04 - Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
05 - Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
06 - Beat softened butter and powdered sugar together until creamy. Add milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt; beat until fluffy and spreadable.
07 - Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled shortbread base.
08 - Sprinkle star-shaped sprinkles over the frosting and optionally add edible glitter or sanding sugar.
09 - Chill the bars in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to set the frosting. Use the parchment overhang to lift from the pan and cut into 12 bars.
