Funfetti Cake Batter Cookie Bars: A Sweet, Colorful Treat for Any Celebration

There’s something about Funfetti that instantly brings a smile to anyone’s face. Today, I’m sharing a Funfetti Cake Batter Cookie Bars recipe that perfectly captures the essence of fun and celebration — no birthday required! Whether you’re baking for a party, potluck, or simply want to surprise your family with a cheerful dessert, these bars are the answer. Bright, buttery, and topped with creamy frosting and sprinkles, they’re pure joy in every bite.

These bars are perfect for novice bakers, busy moms, or anyone who wants a quick, no-fuss dessert that looks and tastes like it came straight from a bakery. Using simple ingredients like sugar cookie mix and cake mix makes preparation a breeze, while homemade frosting adds that extra special touch. Trust me — everyone will be asking you for the recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookie Bars:

• 1 pouch (1 lb 1.5 oz) sugar cookie mix

• 1 box (15.75 oz) white cake mix

• 3 large eggs

• 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 3 tablespoons rainbow sprinkles

For the Frosting:

• 1/2 cup butter, softened

• 1½ cups powdered sugar

• 2-4 tablespoons milk (or heavy cream)

• ¼ teaspoon almond extract

• Additional sprinkles for garnish

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Parchment paper or cooking spray

• Mixing bowls

• Handheld mixer

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Cooling rack

• Offset spatula (for frosting, optional but helpful)

How to Make Funfetti Cake Batter Cookie Bars

1. Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or spray it generously with nonstick spray. Set aside.

2. Make the Cookie Bar Batter

In a large bowl, combine the dry sugar cookie mix, dry white cake mix, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Using a handheld mixer, beat the ingredients until fully combined — about one minute.

Gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles using a wooden spoon or spatula. Stir lightly to prevent the sprinkles from bleeding their colors into the batter.

3. Spread and Bake

Drop spoonfuls of batter evenly across the prepared baking dish. This makes it easier to spread the sticky dough. Use your hands or a spatula to press and smooth the batter into an even layer.

Bake for 28-32 minutes, until the bars are golden brown around the edges and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan for about one hour.

4. Make the Frosting

While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. Beat the softened butter with a handheld mixer until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, almond extract, and start with one tablespoon of milk.

Continue adding milk (or heavy cream) a tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency. The higher the fat content of your milk or cream, the more you may need.

5. Frost and Garnish

Once the bars are fully cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Garnish with extra rainbow sprinkles immediately after frosting.

Cut into squares and enjoy!

Tips and Shortcuts for Perfect Bars

• Use Heavy Cream for Frosting: Heavy cream creates a rich, fluffy frosting that’s easier to spread and less sweet than milk-based frostings.

• Don’t Overmix: Stir the sprinkles in gently to prevent color streaking.

• Cool Completely: Frosting warm bars will cause the icing to melt and slide off.

• Parchment Paper: Make sure to leave an overhang when lining your baking dish. It will help you lift the bars out easily for cleaner cuts.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

• Different Flavors: Swap the white cake mix for funfetti or yellow cake mix for a different flavor base.

• Extra Add-ins: Add mini white chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for an extra treat.

• Holiday Themes: Use seasonal sprinkles to adapt these bars for Christmas, Halloween, or Fourth of July!

• Frosting Alternatives: Not a fan of almond extract? Use vanilla extract instead for a classic buttercream frosting.

How to Store Leftovers

• At Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• In the Fridge: If you prefer a firmer frosting, refrigerate them in a covered container for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze unfrosted bars for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw completely and frost before serving.

Fun Food and Drink Pairings

• Beverages: These bars pair perfectly with a glass of cold milk, a vanilla latte, or a fruity sparkling soda.

• Party Spread: Include them in a dessert table alongside chocolate chip cookies, brownies, and lemon bars for a vibrant dessert buffet.

• Toppings: Add a drizzle of white chocolate or a few dollops of whipped cream on the side for extra decadence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use different cake mix flavors?

Absolutely! Yellow cake mix, funfetti cake mix, or even strawberry cake mix would work beautifully for a twist on the classic flavor.

Do I have to use almond extract in the frosting?

Nope! While almond extract adds a light, bakery-style flavor, you can substitute vanilla extract if you prefer a more traditional taste.

Why do my sprinkles bleed into the batter?

Sprinkle bleeding often happens when you overmix or use non-jimmies (long, waxy sprinkles). Be sure to fold sprinkles gently and choose high-quality rainbow jimmies for best results.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the bars a day ahead and frost them right before serving. They stay delicious and soft for several days.

How do I cut the bars neatly?

Chill the bars for 15-20 minutes after frosting, then use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts for the cleanest edges.

Final Thoughts

These Funfetti Cake Batter Cookie Bars are a colorful, delicious treat that’s guaranteed to make any occasion a little brighter. Easy to make, easy to customize, and totally irresistible — they deserve a spot in your recipe collection!

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! And be sure to subscribe to the blog for more easy, fun, and delicious recipes delivered right to your inbox. Happy baking!