Prepare the Pan and Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
Make the Cookie Dough:
In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and cream cheese, mixing until well combined. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated.
Gradually add in the flour and baking powder, mixing until a thick cookie dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
Bake the Cookie Bars:
Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan using a spatula. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is set and a light golden brown. Let the cookie bars cool in the pan for a few minutes.
Make the Frosting:
While the cookie bars are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If desired, add a few drops of pink food coloring gel and mix until the color is evenly distributed. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if the frosting is too thick or more powdered sugar if it’s too thin.
Frost and Decorate:
Once the cookie bars have cooled, generously spread the frosting over the top. Add sprinkles for a festive touch, then cut the bars into 16 squares. Serve and enjoy!