Lattice Jam Bars
Lattice Jam Bars are a delightful treat featuring a buttery crust layered with sweet apricot jam and topped with a decorative lattice of dough. Perfect for a comforting dessert or snack, they combine crunchy almonds, rich butter, and fruity jam for a delicious, visually appealing dish suited for gatherings or tea time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the crushed almonds and sugar.
- Blend in the butter and flour until well combined.
- Mix the ingredients thoroughly.
- Add the egg yolks and mix well.
- Roll half of the dough to 1/2-inch thickness and save the remaining dough for cross bars.
- Spread the rolled dough on a cookie sheet.
- Spread the apricot jam evenly over the dough.
- Roll out the remaining dough and cut into strips to make cross bars.
- Arrange the strips in a crisscross pattern on top of the jam to create a lattice.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 30 minutes, or until light brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, consider toasting the chopped almonds before mixing them in. If you don't have apricot jam, raspberry or strawberry preserves work well as substitutes. To make the bars more indulgent, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. Ensure your butter is softened for easier blending, and don't skip chilling the dough for that perfect texture.
Serving Suggestions
These lattice jam bars are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. They also make a great addition to dessert platters alongside other sweet treats like the *Dump Delight Cake*.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover lattice jam bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to reheat, simply warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes to restore some crispiness without drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lattice Jam Bars contains roughly 219 calories, with 9g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), iron (13% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (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 use different types of jam for this recipe?
Absolutely! While apricot jam is traditional, feel free to experiment with any fruit preserves you enjoy, such as raspberry or peach. Just ensure the jam is thick enough to spread without making the dough soggy.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free lattice jam bars, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. This will help maintain the structure and texture of the bars without compromising flavor.
Can I freeze the lattice jam bars?
Yes, you can freeze these bars! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the oven for a warm treat.
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).