Scandinavian Almond Bars
Scandinavian Almond Bars are delicate, buttery cookies with a crisp texture, infused with almond flavor and topped with sliced almonds. Perfect for teatime or special occasions, they offer a delightful combination of sweetness and nutty crunch that appeals to both traditional and modern palates.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter or margarine until softened.
- Add sugar and beat until fluffy.
- Add egg and almond extract; beat well.
- Add the flour mixture; beat until well mixed.
- Divide the dough into four equal parts.
- Form each part into a 12-inch long roll.
- Place two rolls 4 to 5 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Flatten each roll until it is about 3 inches wide.
- Repeat with the remaining rolls.
- Brush the flattened rolls with milk and sprinkle with chopped sliced almonds.
- Bake in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until edges are lightly browned.
- While the cookies are still warm, cut them crosswise at a diagonal into 1-inch wide strips.
- Allow to cool.
- Drizzle with Almond Icing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, try toasting the sliced almonds before adding them to the dough. If you don’t have almond extract, you can substitute with vanilla extract, though it will alter the flavor slightly. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing. If you prefer a softer texture, consider reducing the baking time by a minute or two.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delightful on their own but can also be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. For a festive touch, consider drizzling extra Almond Icing on top before serving. They pair beautifully with Swedish Pepparkaka Slices for a delightful holiday spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Scandinavian Almond Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scandinavian Almond Bars contains roughly 47 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 2g 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 use a different type of nut instead of almonds?
Yes, you can substitute sliced almonds with other nuts like pecans or walnuts, but keep in mind that this will change the flavor profile of the bars. Just ensure the nuts are chopped coarsely and added in the same quantity.
What can I use instead of butter?
You can use margarine or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version. Coconut oil is another option, but it may impart a slight coconut flavor. Make sure to use the same amount as the recipe calls for.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are lightly browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake, as this can cause them to become dry.
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).