Almond Shortbread Bars
Almond Shortbread Bars offer a rich, buttery flavor with a hint of almond, perfect for any occasion. Their crisp texture and nutty taste make them a delightful treat for dessert lovers and those craving a simple yet indulgent baked good. Ideal for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixer bowl, combine flour, sugar, softened sweet cream butter, egg yolk, and almond extract.
- Beat at low speed, scraping the bowl often, until particles are fine, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 15 x 10 x 1-inch jelly roll pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider toasting the almonds before adding them to the dough. If you prefer a nuttier taste, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour. Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing. To enhance the almond flavor, add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract, or consider pairing with Nana Mccann'S Chocolate Sauce for a delightful serving option.
Serving Suggestions
These almond shortbread bars are perfect as a sweet treat with coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with fresh fruit or can be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Consider drizzling a bit of warm chocolate sauce over the top for an indulgent dessert experience. For a festive touch, serve them during holidays or special occasions, alongside other desserts like Classic Rum Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover almond shortbread bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, place the bars in a warm oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Almond Shortbread Bars contains roughly 149 calories, with 5g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for sweet cream butter in this recipe. However, the flavor and texture may differ slightly. Choose a high-quality margarine for the best results, and ensure it's softened before mixing to achieve a smooth dough.
What can I use instead of almonds?
If you're allergic to almonds, feel free to substitute with other nuts such as walnuts or pecans, or even use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version. Just be sure to adjust the amount according to your preference and the size of the nuts or seeds used.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The almond shortbread bars are done baking when they turn a golden brown color around the edges. You can also lightly press the center with a finger; it should feel firm but slightly soft. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent over-baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).