Scandinavian Bar Cookies
Scandinavian Bar Cookies are buttery, crisp treats with a simple sweet flavor, ideal for coffee breaks or casual gatherings, appealing to those who enjoy delicate, homemade confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the flour, butter, and sugar together.
- Pat the mixture with your hands into a 9x13-inch baking pan until about 1/2 inch thick.
- Bake until light brown, about 10 minutes at 375°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can also add a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens vary, and you want to avoid over-baking. This recipe can also be adapted with added nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Scandinavian Bar Cookies as a delightful afternoon treat with a cup of tea or coffee. They pair wonderfully with fresh fruit, making them a great accompaniment to Amy'S Fresh Orange Fruit Dip for a light dessert platter. For a special occasion, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzled with chocolate sauce for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, cut the bar cookies into squares and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scandinavian Bar Cookies contains roughly 314 calories, with 7g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value), protein (14% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 add flavors like vanilla or almond extract?
Absolutely! Adding a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to the mixture will enhance the flavor of the bar cookies. Just mix it in with the butter, sugar, and flour until well combined for a delicious twist.
What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If the dough feels too crumbly and isn't holding together, try adding a tablespoon or two of cold water or melted butter to help bind it. Mix until the dough comes together, then proceed with patting it into the baking pan.
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with alternatives like whole wheat flour or almond flour for different textures and flavors. Keep in mind that this may slightly change the baking time and texture, so monitor the bars as they bake.
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).