Hazelnut-Strawberry Bars
These Hazelnut-Strawberry Bars feature a crunchy hazelnut crust topped with sweet strawberry jam, perfect for a delightful snack or dessert to impress friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Butter and flour a 9-inch square baking pan.
- Process the hazelnuts until finely chopped or ground.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, orange zest, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until creamy.
- Add egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until combined.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until golden.
- Allow to cool before slicing and dusting with confectioners sugar if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a different flavor, try substituting the hazelnuts with walnuts or almonds. If you don't have strawberry jam, any berry jam works well. Ensure the butter is softened for easier mixing, and consider chilling the dough for 15 minutes before pressing it into the pan for better texture. Dusting with confectioners sugar before serving adds a nice touch and sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are perfect for dessert or as a sweet snack with coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. Consider serving alongside fresh strawberries or a side of Cottage Or Ricotta Cheese Pie for a delightful summer brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store the leftover hazelnut-strawberry bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy a warm treat, or serve chilled for a refreshing snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hazelnut-Strawberry Bars contains roughly 258 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 19g 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 make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This should provide a similar texture and taste. Make sure the other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free to ensure the entire recipe is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
What can I use instead of butter?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. Both will work well in this recipe. Just ensure the butter substitute is softened for easy mixing and that it complements the flavors of the hazelnuts and strawberries.
How can I make these bars more festive?
To make these bars more festive, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the dough. You can also top the strawberry jam with fresh berries before baking for a colorful presentation, or drizzle with melted chocolate once the bars are cooled for an elegant touch.
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).