Scandinavian Almond Bars are the perfect blend of buttery goodness and nutty flavors. These delightful treats are inspired by the Scandinavian culinary tradition and are sure to bring a touch of sweetness to your day. With a crisp exterior and a soft, almond-infused interior, they make for a hit at any gathering. Plus, they are super easy to make, which means you can whip them up anytime you need a sweet snack or dessert!
What You’ll Need for Scandinavian Almond Bars
Before you dive into the baking process, gather all your ingredients. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (220g)
- 2 tsp. baking powder (8g)
- 1/4 tsp. salt (1.5g)
- 1/2 cup butter, softened (113g or 1 stick)
- 1 cup sugar (200g)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp. almond extract (2.5ml)
- 2 Tblsp. milk (30ml)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (50g) for topping
- 1 cup sifted powdered sugar (120g) for icing
- 1/4 tsp. almond extract (2.5ml) for icing
- Enough milk (3-4 tsp.) (15-20ml) to create a drizzling consistency
Step-by-Step Scandinavian Almond Bars Recipe
Making your own Scandinavian Almond Bars is straightforward and fun! Follow these steps for a delicious outcome:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until creamy and well combined.
- Add the egg and almond extract, and beat until everything is smooth.
- Gradually mix in the flour mixture until the dough becomes crumbly and well-combined.
- Divide the dough into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a roll about 12 inches long. Place these rolls on the prepared cookie sheet, making sure to leave 4 to 5 inches of space between them.
- Flatten each roll to about 3 inches wide.
- Brush the tops of the rolls with milk and sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over them.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
- While warm, cut each slab diagonally into 1-inch wide strips. Transfer these to a wire rack and let them cool completely.
- For the icing, stir together the sifted powdered sugar, almond extract, and enough milk to create a drizzling consistency.
- Drizzle the icing over the cooled bars.
Store your Scandinavian Almond Bars in an airtight container, and they’ll taste even better after sitting overnight!
How to Serve Scandinavian Almond Bars
Serving your Scandinavian Almond Bars is a delightful experience! You can enjoy them plain, or make them even more inviting with a few simple touches:
- Arrange the bars on a beautiful serving platter and dust with additional powdered sugar for a pretty finish.
- Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
- For a festive presentation, serve with fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries on the side.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Nut Substitution: If you want to change things up, feel free to replace sliced almonds with chopped pecans or walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
- Add a Twist: For a hint of chocolate, consider folding some mini chocolate chips into the dough before baking.
- Glaze Alternative: Want to skip the icing entirely? You can simply sprinkle a little sugar on top before baking for a simpler treat.
Scandinavian Almond Bars FAQs
1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! Scandinavian Almond Bars can be made a few days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
2. What’s the best way to store leftover bars?
Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They actually taste better the day after baking!
3. Can I freeze the unused dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough! Shape it into rolls and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready, just thaw and bake as usual.
Give these delightful Scandinavian Almond Bars a try, and share the joy of baking with loved ones! They are sure to become a new favorite in your home!
Scandinavian Almond Bars
These delightful Scandinavian Almond Bars feature a buttery goodness with nutty flavors, perfect for any gathering or as a sweet snack.
Main Ingredients
- 1.75 cups all-purpose flour (about 220g)
- 2 tsp baking powder (about 8g)
- 1/4 tsp salt (about 1.5g)
- 1/2 cup butter, softened (about 113g or 1 stick)
- 1 cup sugar (about 200g)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp almond extract (about 2.5ml)
- 2 Tblsp milk (about 30ml)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds for topping (about 50g)
Icing Ingredients
- 1 cup sifted powdered sugar (about 120g)
- 1/4 tsp almond extract for icing (about 2.5ml)
- 3-4 tsp milk for drizzling consistency (about 15-20ml)
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until creamy and well combined.
- Add the egg and almond extract, and beat until everything is smooth.
- Gradually mix in the flour mixture until the dough becomes crumbly and well-combined.
Shaping
- Divide the dough into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a roll about 12 inches long. Place these rolls on the prepared cookie sheet, making sure to leave 4 to 5 inches of space between them.
- Flatten each roll to about 3 inches wide.
- Brush the tops of the rolls with milk and sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over them.
Baking
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
- While warm, cut each slab diagonally into 1-inch wide strips. Transfer these to a wire rack and let them cool completely.
Icing
- For the icing, stir together the sifted powdered sugar, almond extract, and enough milk to create a drizzling consistency.
- Drizzle the icing over the cooled bars.
Store your Scandinavian Almond Bars in an airtight container; they’ll taste even better after sitting overnight! You can also sprinkle additional powdered sugar on top for serving.
