Dutch Almond Bar Cookies
Delightful almond bar cookies featuring a cinnamon-spiced shortbread crust topped with sliced almonds and sugar, perfect for a sweet treat at gatherings or with afternoon tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
- Cut in chilled margarine with a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
- Stir in ice water and beaten egg until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough into a ball.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch square baking pan coated with vegetable spray.
- Brush the dough with beaten egg white.
- Sprinkle the glazed dough with 2 tablespoons sugar and sliced almonds.
- Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
- Cut into bars and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. To enhance the almond flavor, add a teaspoon of almond extract to the dough. Make sure to keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens may vary, and you don't want the edges to become too dark.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own or served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. For a fun twist, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter with other treats like Cereal Refrigerator Cookies or Paula'S Pound Cake for a variety of flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Dutch Almond Bar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until they are slightly crisp again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dutch Almond Bar Cookies contains roughly 170 calories, with 3g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of calcium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 833mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
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 another type of nut instead of almonds?
Yes, you can substitute almonds with other nuts like pecans or walnuts for a different flavor. Just chop them roughly and sprinkle them on top before baking. Keep in mind that the taste and texture will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
What if I don't have margarine?
If you don't have margarine, you can easily replace it with the same amount of unsalted butter. This will add a richer flavor to your cookies. Just make sure the butter is chilled and cut into small pieces before blending it into the dry ingredients.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to two days before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container. They are perfect for making ahead for gatherings or as a sweet treat throughout the week.
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).