Almond Bars

These Almond Bars are a delightful treat featuring a tender, buttery base topped with toasted sliced almonds and finished with a smooth almond glaze. Perfect for dessert or a sweet snack, this recipe balances rich almond flavor with a delicate sweetness that isn’t overpowering. The bars have a satisfying crunch from the almonds and a soft, cakey texture that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering, gifting them to friends, or enjoying a quiet afternoon with coffee, these bars are sure to please.

Made from simple pantry staples like all-purpose flour, butter, sugar, and eggs, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels. The almond extract enhances the nutty flavor throughout the bars and in the glaze, giving a consistent and harmonious taste. These bars are also easy to customize—add a pinch of cinnamon, swap sliced almonds for chopped, or drizzle chocolate on top for an extra indulgence.

With their beautiful presentation and satisfying texture, Almond Bars make a wonderful addition to any dessert table or lunchbox.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Almond Flavor: Almond extract in the dough and glaze brings a wonderful nutty taste.
• Perfect Texture: Buttery, soft bars with a crunchy almond topping.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples you likely have on hand.
• Versatile Dessert: Great for holidays, parties, or everyday treats.
• Easy to Make: Straightforward steps suitable for all baking skill levels.

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Ingredients

For the bars:

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Kosher salt
Unsalted butter, softened
Granulated sugar
Large eggs
Almond extract

For the topping:

Milk (any variety)
Sliced almonds

For the glaze:

Powdered sugar
Almond extract
Milk (any variety)

Variations

• Add Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the dough for a bright twist.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the glaze.
• Use Different Nuts: Substitute sliced almonds with pecans or walnuts.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat the oven and prepare a baking pan by greasing it or lining with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and kosher salt.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 4

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the almond extract.

Step 5

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Step 6

Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.

Step 7

Brush the dough with milk and sprinkle sliced almonds evenly over the top.

Step 8

Bake until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 9

While the bars cool, mix powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk to create the glaze.

Step 10

Once bars are slightly cooled, drizzle or spread the glaze over the top. Let set before slicing.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and better texture.
• Don’t overmix once dry ingredients are added to keep bars tender.
• Toast the almonds lightly before adding for extra flavor and crunch.
• Allow the glaze to set completely before cutting to avoid messy slices.
• Store bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

How to Serve

Serve Almond Bars as a dessert alongside coffee or tea, or pack them for a portable snack. They’re excellent at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked and glazed bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

If desired, warm bars briefly in a microwave or oven before serving, but they are delicious cold as well.

FAQs

Can I substitute almond extract?

Yes, vanilla extract can be used but the almond flavor will be milder.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce or omit additional salt in the dough.

How thick should the dough layer be?

About 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick for even baking and good texture.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Can I use chopped almonds instead of sliced?

Yes, chopped almonds will add a different texture but work well.

How do I store the bars to keep them fresh?

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature, away from heat.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger pan and adjust baking time accordingly.

How long do they keep after glazing?

They stay fresh for about 4 days at room temperature.

Can I add other flavors to the glaze?

Yes, a little lemon juice or vanilla extract can be added for variation.

What pan size is best for baking?

A 9×13-inch baking pan works well for this recipe.

Conclusion

Almond Bars offer a perfect combination of buttery, tender cake and crunchy nutty topping with a sweet almond glaze that makes every bite delightful. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, these bars are ideal for any occasion, whether casual or special. Their rich almond flavor and appealing texture ensure they’ll quickly become a favorite dessert or snack in your repertoire. Enjoy them fresh, or make ahead to share with friends and family.

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