Description
Delectable almond bars blend European pastry elegance with sweet nutty charm. Crisp edges, silky center, and rich almond essence invite dessert lovers to savor each delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks/226 grams) unsalted butter, softened
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
Finishing Ingredients:
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup sliced almonds
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the baking environment by heating the oven to 350F (175C) and creating a non-stick surface in a 9×13-inch pan using either a light grease coating or parchment paper lining.
- Create a creamy base by thoroughly blending butter and sugar until achieving a light, airy texture, then incorporate eggs individually, followed by the aromatic almond extract.
- Develop the dry mixture by whisking flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate vessel, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
- Merge wet and dry components gradually, stirring until a uniform batter forms without overmixing.
- Transfer the smooth batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly to create a consistent layer.
- Embellish the surface with a delicate scattering of sliced almonds, ensuring uniform coverage.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, monitoring until the edges turn a gentle golden hue and a inserted toothpick emerges clean.
- Allow the baked bars to cool completely within the pan, promoting structural integrity.
- Once cooled, slice into precise squares or rectangles, optionally dusting with a light veil of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Adjust Almond Intensity by swapping almond extract with vanilla for a milder flavor profile or using both for enhanced depth.
- Prevent Dry Texture by not overmixing the batter, which can develop tough gluten and reduce moisture in the final bars.
- Create Gluten-Free Option by substituting all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Enhance Presentation by toasting sliced almonds briefly before sprinkling on top, which deepens their nutty flavor and adds beautiful golden color to the bars.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg