1 2 3 4 Bars
Discover the simplicity and versatility of 1 2 3 4 Bars—your go-to dessert or snack that strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and ease. Named for its easy-to-remember ratio of key ingredients, this recipe combines buttery richness, tender crumb, and a hint of vanilla for a classic homemade treat. Ready in just 45 minutes, these bars offer endless customization with optional mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit, letting you tailor them to any occasion. Whether you're baking for a crowd or a cozy family gathering, this quick and crowd-pleasing recipe will become a staple in your baking repertoire. Perfectly golden and packed with flavor, these dessert bars are an absolute must-try for fans of simple, stress-free baking!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 pieces large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup optional mix-ins (e.g., chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes using a handheld or stand mixer on medium speed.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
If using optional mix-ins, gently fold them into the batter at this stage.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 28-32 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares or rectangles.
Serve and enjoy! Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
5159 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 183.5 g | 235% | |
| Saturated Fat | 94.5 g | 472% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 992 mg | 331% | |
| Sodium | 2092 mg | 91% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 825.9 g | 300% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.8 g | 64% | |
| Total Sugars | 497.8 g | ||
| Protein | 78.0 g | 156% | |
| Vitamin D | 4.0 mcg | 20% | |
| Calcium | 266 mg | 20% | |
| Iron | 24.7 mg | 137% | |
| Potassium | 1104 mg | 23% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
