Vienna Bars
Vienna Bars are sweet, buttery cookie bars filled with jam and topped with chocolate chips, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings and suitable for gatherings or afternoon treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup margarine at room temperature and 1/2 cup sugar.
- Work until creamy and well mixed.
- Beat in the salt and egg yolks.
- Add flour and knead with fingers until smooth.
- Pat dough evenly into a 12 x 17-inch pan.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes in a preheated 350°F oven until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the margarine with unsalted butter. If you're out of jam, any fruit preserves or even Nutella can work as a delicious alternative. To avoid a sticky mess, lightly flour your hands when kneading the dough. Ensure the egg yolks are at room temperature for better incorporation into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Vienna Bars warm or at room temperature, optionally drizzling with melted chocolate for extra indulgence. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a delightful contrast, consider serving alongside a fresh fruit salad or browse more American recipes for complementary desserts.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Vienna Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through, which helps to restore their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vienna Bars contains roughly 2185 calories, with 48g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 194g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (95% of the Daily Value), iron (52% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 jam?
Yes, you can absolutely substitute the jam with your favorite flavor. Raspberry, apricot, or even a chocolate spread can work beautifully, depending on your preference. Just ensure the consistency is similar to that of the original jam for best results.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Vienna Bars, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum or add a teaspoon to help bind the ingredients. This will maintain the texture while accommodating gluten-free diets.
Can I freeze Vienna Bars?
Yes, Vienna Bars freeze well! Once baked and cooled, cut them into squares and layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before enjoying.
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).