Jessie'S "Beam" Bars
Sweet and nutty layered bars with a cinnamon-spiced crumb topping, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings or sharing at gatherings with buttery, caramelized flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the sugars and flour together.
- Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles crumbs.
- Combine 2 cups of this crumb mixture with the chopped nuts.
- Press this nutty crumb mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- In a separate bowl, combine the egg, buttermilk, soda, salt, and cinnamon, and beat until smooth.
- Add the remaining crumb mixture to the liquid and beat vigorously until well combined.
- Spread this batter evenly over the unbaked crumb layer in the pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Allow to cool, then frost as desired.
- Cut into bars and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown butter instead of regular butter. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can simply omit the nuts or substitute them with chocolate chips for added sweetness. Make sure to pack the crumb mixture firmly into the pan for a firmer base. For a unique twist, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jessie’s Beam Bars warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with a simple glaze or frosting of your choice. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. These bars also make a great addition to dessert platters or potlucks, alongside other favorites like Million Dollar Pie (Club Member: Christy Hosey).
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Beam Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week. To reheat, place individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through, or enjoy them cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jessie'S "Beam" Bars contains roughly 284 calories, with 5g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% 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 substitute the buttermilk in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken before using. This will give you a similar tangy flavor and moisture that's crucial for the bars.
What kind of nuts work best in this recipe?
Chopped walnuts or pecans are excellent choices for this recipe, as they add a nice crunch and flavor. If you're looking for something different, try using almonds or even macadamia nuts for a unique twist. Just be sure to chop them evenly for consistent texture.
Can I freeze these bars for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
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).