Tom Thumb Bars
Deliciously sweet and buttery Tom Thumb Bars with a crisp texture, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings or sharing at gatherings. Easy to make and universally loved.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening, salt, and brown sugar together.
- Add the flour and blend until the mixture is uniform.
- Press the dough into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening. You can also substitute half of the brown sugar with granulated sugar for a different sweetness profile. If you're out of baking powder, a mix of baking soda and cream of tartar can work. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for afternoon gatherings. For a complementary dish, consider serving alongside Apple Cobbler Superb for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Tom Thumb Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, ensuring they don't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tom Thumb Bars contains roughly 368 calories, with 5g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value), iron (10% of the Daily Value), and calcium (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 other types of sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with granulated sugar or even coconut sugar for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that using granulated sugar may result in a slightly less moist texture.
What can I add for extra flavor or texture?
You can incorporate chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch. Dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, can also enhance the flavor profile. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can provide a warm, aromatic touch.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that your baking powder is also gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but they will still be delicious.
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).