Shannon'S Dream Bars
Shannon's Dream Bars are rich, buttery dessert bars with a sweet brown sugar and flour crust, perfect for satisfying cravings and sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare a 9 x 6-inch pan by greasing it with margarine and dusting with 1/4 cup flour.
- Melt 1/2 cup margarine or butter in a saucepan over low heat.
- Add 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1 cup flour to the melted margarine.
- Stir until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press evenly over the bottom and sides to form a crust.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. Make sure to melt the butter gently to avoid burning. If you want a nutty twist, add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the crust mixture. To ensure even baking, keep an eye on the bars as they can go from golden to overdone quickly. For a fun variation, consider serving with a scoop of Snickers Ice Cream.
Serving Suggestions
These Dream Bars are delightful on their own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. You can also drizzle a bit of chocolate sauce on top for added sweetness. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat. They complement well with other desserts like Old Fashion Cookies or Pie Blitz.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them, where they can last up to a week. To reheat, warm in the microwave for a few seconds until just soft, or enjoy them cold for a chewy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shannon'S Dream Bars contains roughly 250 calories, with 2g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 759mg per serving (33% 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 a different type of sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute white granulated sugar for brown sugar if you prefer a lighter flavor. However, using brown sugar contributes to the moisture and chewiness of the bars, so keep that in mind when making substitutions.
What should I do if the bars are too crumbly?
If the bars turn out crumbly, it may be due to overmixing or not enough binding agents. Ensure you measure your flour correctly and consider adding a bit more melted butter to help bind the ingredients together next time.
Can I freeze these Dream Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
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).