Honey Spice Bars (Finika)
Honey Spice Bars are rich, buttery treats with a zesty orange flavor, perfect for those who enjoy sweet, citrusy baked goods with a hint of spice. Ideal for snacking or dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Ensure that butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting.
- Dissolve the soda in the fresh orange juice.
- Mix butter, Crisco, Crisco oil, and sugar until well combined.
- Add egg yolks, grated orange rind, and orange juice mixture to the creamed mixture and blend thoroughly.
- Gradually add the Pillsbury flour and baking powder, mixing until a dough forms.
- Adjust the amount of flour between 2 to 7 cups to achieve the right dough consistency.
- Spread the dough evenly in a greased baking pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to help with blending. If you don't have Crisco, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer flavor. Adjust the flour gradually, starting with 2 cups, to find the right consistency for your dough. This recipe is adaptable; spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delicious on their own, but for an extra treat, serve them with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They pair beautifully with Orange Vanilla French Toast for a delightful brunch spread. You can also enjoy them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Honey Spice Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place bars in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until just warmed through to maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Honey Spice Bars (Finika) contains roughly 288 calories, with 10g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C.
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 whole eggs instead of just egg yolks?
Yes, you can use whole eggs instead of just egg yolks. This will make the bars slightly richer and denser, but they will still turn out delicious. Just be mindful that the texture may vary slightly from the original recipe.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Remember, the exact amount of flour can vary depending on humidity and other factors, so adjust as needed.
Can I freeze these bars for later?
Yes, you can freeze Honey Spice Bars. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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).