Cookie Sheet Sugar Cookie Bars

INGREDIENTS
Cookies:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
2 cups sugar
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract, optional
5 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Frosting:
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, room temperature
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 cups powdered sugar
3 tablespoons heavy cream
red or yellow food coloring
sprinkles or nonpareils, optional

PREPARATION
Preheat oven to 350º F and lightly grease a 13×17-inch baking sheet with butter or non-stick spray.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt and baking soda until combined.
Cream together butter and sugar for 3-4 minutes in a large bowl or mixer.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then beat in vanilla and almond extracts. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just incorporated.
Drop large scoopfuls of cookie dough onto prepared baking sheet, then use your hands or a flat-bottomed measuring cup to flatten dough into an even layer.
Place in oven and bake for 12-17 minutes, or until edges are golden brown and center is puffed up, yet still looks slightly undercooked.
Remove from oven and let cool completely.
In a large bowl or mixer, beat butter and cream cheese together for 3-4 minutes, or until smooth and fluffy.
Mix in vanilla extract, then gradually beat in powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons heavy cream. If looser frosting is desired, beat in remaining 1 tablespoon.
Add food coloring until desired color is reached, then spread over cooled cookie.
Chill before serving, then slice, serve and enjoy!