Description
Delight in these irresistibly sweet and simple Almond Bars, featuring a buttery crust topped with a smooth almond paste filling and a sprinkle of sliced almonds. Perfect as a classic dessert or a sweet snack, these bars combine rich almond flavor and a tender texture that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Almond Topping
- 1/2 cup almond paste, crumbled
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Make the Base Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is fluffy. Then, add the egg and almond extract and mix until combined. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Press Dough into Pan: Evenly press the developed dough into the prepared pan, creating a smooth and uniform base layer for the bars.
- Prepare Almond Topping: In a separate bowl, blend the crumbled almond paste, granulated sugar, egg, and almond extract until the mixture is smooth and consistent.
- Assemble Bars: Spread the almond topping evenly over the base dough in the pan. Sprinkle the sliced almonds on top to add texture and extra almond flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the bars are lightly golden around the edges and the almond topping is set.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper and slice into 16 bars for serving.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming with sugar.
- Almond paste can sometimes be dense; crumble it finely to ensure smooth mixing in the topping.
- Cooling completely before slicing helps the bars hold their shape and prevents crumbling.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- For an extra nutty flavor, lightly toast the sliced almonds before sprinkling on top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
