Ladyfinger Bars
Ladyfinger Bars are light, fluffy sponge cake treats with a delicate texture, perfect for snacking or dessert. They suit those who enjoy sweet, airy confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat egg yolks in a large bowl at high speed of an electric mixer for 5 minutes or until thick and lemon colored.
- Add sugar, water, and vanilla, mixing just until blended.
- Combine flour and baking powder.
- Sift flour mixture over yolk mixture; gently fold in flour mixture.
- Beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold egg whites into yolk mixture.
- Spread batter evenly in a 15 x 10 x 1-inch jellyroll pan that has been coated with vegetable cooking spray and lined with parchment paper.
- Bake at 325° for 15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and cool completely.
- Cut into 1 x 2 1/2-inch bars.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the egg whites before beating them, which can help achieve stiffer peaks. If you need a gluten-free version, substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to sift your flour to ensure a light texture. For added sweetness, try drizzling a light glaze made from powdered sugar and water over the bars after they cool.
Serving Suggestions
These ladyfinger bars make a delightful treat on their own but can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon snack. They also pair beautifully with Ruby'S Broccoli Salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ladyfinger bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. To enjoy them warm, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat, as they can become tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ladyfinger Bars contains roughly 200 calories, with 4g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (24% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 481mg per serving (21% 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 make these ladyfinger bars in advance?
Yes, you can make these bars a day ahead. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container. They actually taste better after a day as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to let them cool completely before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
What can I do if my egg whites don't form stiff peaks?
If your egg whites aren't forming stiff peaks, ensure that your mixing bowl and beaters are completely clean and free of grease. Any fat can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly. You can also add a pinch of cream of tartar to help stabilize the egg whites.
Can I freeze ladyfinger bars?
Yes, ladyfinger bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, cut them into bars and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature 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).