Southern Almond Bars
Sweet and nutty Southern Almond Bars feature a buttery crust topped with sliced almonds and a cinnamon-sugar sprinkle, offering a delightful crunch and rich flavor. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a treat with coffee, these bars combine almond essence with classic caramelized sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt the butter and add 1 1/2 cups sugar, stirring to combine.
- Beat in the eggs and almond flavoring until smooth.
- Add the flour and salt, mixing until well incorporated.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured jelly roll pan, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle the sliced almonds and cinnamon-sugar mixture on top of the batter.
- Bake for 20 minutes until lightly golden.
- Remove from oven, cut into squares, and return to the oven.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes until light brown on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, consider toasting the sliced almonds before adding them to the batter. If you're looking for a substitute for almond flavoring, try using vanilla extract, though it will alter the taste slightly. Ensure the butter is fully melted and cooled before mixing with the sugar to prevent curdling the eggs. This recipe is part of American recipes that are perfect for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
These Southern Almond Bars are delightful served with a cup of coffee or tea. For a more festive touch, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate ganache. They pair beautifully with Grandma Knight'S Fruit Dip for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving with a side of fresh berries for a colorful plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover almond bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Almond Bars contains roughly 220 calories, with 4g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 6g 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 margarine instead of butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but it may slightly change the texture and flavor of the bars. Choose a high-quality margarine for the best results. Keep in mind that butter generally gives a richer taste and texture, which is desirable for these almond bars.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free almond bars, substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with the texture. This allows you to enjoy the same delicious flavor while accommodating gluten-free diets.
What can I add to the batter for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or even a splash of amaretto liqueur for an adult twist. Chopped dried fruits like cherries or apricots can also add a nice texture and sweetness to the bars, making them even more enjoyable.
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).