Easy Recipe for Scandinavian Almond Bars – Grandma’s Almond Pastry
There’s something truly special about baking with family traditions, especially when those recipes come from grandma’s kitchen. These Easy Scandinavian Almond Bars are the perfect blend of nutty almond flavor and sweet chocolate, capturing the heart of nostalgic baking. Every bite brings warmth and comfort, making them an ideal treat for family gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack. So, let’s dive into this simple yet delightful recipe that’s sure to impress!
Gather Your Scandinavian Almond Bars Ingredients
To whip up these delicious bars, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you need:
- ½ cup (114 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon (3 ml) almond extract
- 1¾ cups (228 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons (8 g) baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon (1.5 g) salt
- About ¼ cup (60 ml) milk
- ½ cup (50 g) sliced almonds
- 1 cup (170 g) bittersweet chocolate chips
How to Make Scandinavian Almond Bars
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get started with our Easy Recipe for Scandinavian Almond Bars! Follow these simple steps:
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Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line two 11×17-inch cookie sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.
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In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
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Add in the egg and almond extract, mixing until combined.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and beat until everything is well mixed.
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Divide the cookie dough into four portions. Roll each portion into a log about 12 inches long.
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Place two rolls on each cookie sheet, spacing them 4 to 5 inches apart. Flatten each roll using your fingers until they are about 3 inches wide. Repeat with the remaining dough.
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Using a pastry brush or rubber spatula, gently brush enough milk over the flattened dough to cover it. Then, sprinkle sliced almonds evenly on top.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are just slightly browned.
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As soon as they come out of the oven, carefully cut the bars into 1-inch diagonal strips with a knife. Avoid using a sawing motion to keep the delicate bars intact.
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Let them cool on the cookie sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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While the bars cool, melt the chocolate chips in a small bowl using a microwave or a small saucepan over low heat. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled bars.
How to Serve Scandinavian Almond Bars
These Scandinavian Almond Bars are best enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. They make a delightful addition to any dessert platter or can be served on their own as a sweet treat. For a little extra flair, consider dusting the bars with powdered sugar before serving or pairing them with fresh berries for a pop of color on your plate.
Recipe Tips & Variations
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Nutty Twist: If you want to switch things up, try adding other nuts, like walnuts or pecans, alongside the sliced almonds for a different texture.
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Flavor Boost: You can enhance the almond flavor by adding additional almond extract or even a splash of vanilla extract.
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Chocolate Lover: For a richer chocolate flavor, try using dark chocolate chips or even drizzling with white chocolate for a fun contrast.
Scandinavian Almond Bars FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of extract instead of almond extract?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with flavors like vanilla or hazelnut for a unique twist.
Q: How should I store the leftover bars?
A: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well for longer storage.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just make sure to keep them covered to maintain freshness.
Baking these Easy Scandinavian Almond Bars brings a touch of grandma’s love right into your home. With their beautiful golden edges and irresistible chocolate drizzles, you’re sure to create not just a treat, but a delightful memory. So, roll up your sleeves and get baking—you won’t regret it! Enjoy!
Scandinavian Almond Bars
These Easy Scandinavian Almond Bars are the perfect blend of nutty almond flavor and sweet chocolate, capturing the heart of nostalgic baking. Ideal for family gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack.
For the Bar Mixture
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup milk (For brushing)
- ½ cup sliced almonds (For topping)
- 1 cup bittersweet chocolate chips (For drizzling)
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line two 11×17-inch cookie sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add in the egg and almond extract, mixing until combined.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and beat until everything is well mixed.
- Divide the cookie dough into four portions. Roll each portion into a log about 12 inches long.
- Place two rolls on each cookie sheet, spacing them 4 to 5 inches apart. Flatten each roll using your fingers until they are about 3 inches wide. Repeat with the remaining dough.
- Using a pastry brush or rubber spatula, gently brush enough milk over the flattened dough to cover it. Then, sprinkle sliced almonds evenly on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are just slightly browned.
- As soon as they come out of the oven, carefully cut the bars into 1-inch diagonal strips with a knife. Avoid using a sawing motion to keep the delicate bars intact.
- Let them cool on the cookie sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the bars cool, melt the chocolate chips in a small bowl using a microwave or a small saucepan over low heat. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled bars.
These Scandinavian Almond Bars are best enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. For a little extra flair, consider dusting the bars with powdered sugar before serving or pairing them with fresh berries for a pop of color.
