Austrian Almond Squares
Austrian Almond Squares are delicate, buttery pastries topped with sliced almonds and infused with nutmeg, perfect for tea, dessert, or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add egg yolk and beat well.
- Sift together flour and nutmeg. Gradually add to creamed mixture, stirring well.
- Spread dough evenly in a 15 1/4 x 10 1/4-inch pan.
- Beat egg white slightly and brush over the top of the dough.
- Smooth surface with your fingertips and sprinkle sliced almonds over dough, pressing them in lightly.
- Bake in a slow oven at 275°F (135°C) for 1 hour.
- While still warm, cut into 40 (2-inch) squares, making 5 lengthwise and 8 crosswise strips.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract along with the egg yolk. If you don't have sliced almonds, chopped walnuts or pecans can be a good substitute. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with sugar. Be careful not to overmix the dough after adding flour to keep the squares tender.
Serving Suggestions
These almond squares make a delightful afternoon treat and pair beautifully with tea or coffee. For a festive touch, dust them with powdered sugar before serving. They can also be enjoyed alongside fresh fruit or a simple yogurt dip. Consider serving them as part of a dessert platter with other cookies like Southern Tea Cakes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover almond squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them, but let them come to room temperature before serving. They can also be frozen for up to three months; just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Austrian Almond Squares contains roughly 172 calories, with 4g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 12g 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 butter in this recipe, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture. Use a stick variety for the best results, and ensure it is softened to room temperature just like butter.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to spread, you can sprinkle a little extra flour on your hands or the surface to help manage it. Alternatively, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to make it easier to work with.
How do I know when the almond squares are done baking?
The almond squares are done when they are lightly golden on the edges and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time 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).