Scandinavian Almond Bars are simply delightful, and they’ve been turning heads with their sweet aroma and nutty flavor! If you’re looking for a charming treat that balances buttery goodness with a hint of almond, you’re in the right place. These bars are perfect for coffee breaks, dessert tables, or even just a cozy afternoon snack. The taste is irresistible, and the best part? They’re super easy to make!
What You’ll Need for Scandinavian Almond Bars
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (220 g)
- 2 tsp baking powder (8 g)
- ¼ tsp salt (1 g)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature (113 g)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- ½ tsp almond extract (2.5 ml)
- 2 tbsp whole milk (or low-fat) (30 ml)
- ½ cup sliced almonds (60 g)
For icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted (120 g)
- ¼ tsp almond extract (or ½ tsp vanilla) (1.25 ml)
- 1–2 tbsp whole milk (or low-fat) (15-30 ml)
How to Make Scandinavian Almond Bars
- Preheat your oven to 325 °F (165 °C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside for now.
- In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This should take a few minutes.
- Add the egg and almond extract to the butter mixture, mixing well until fully combined.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients from the first bowl until it’s just combined. Don’t overmix!
- Divide the dough into four pieces. Shape each piece into a log about 12 inches long.
- Place two logs per baking sheet, making sure to space them out. Flatten each log into a 3-inch-wide strip.
- Brush the tops with a little milk and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
- Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
- While the bars are still warm, cut them diagonally into 1-inch strips.
- To make the icing, mix the powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk until smooth. Drizzle this over the cooled bars and let it set.
Why This Recipe Is So Popular Right Now
People are absolutely loving Scandinavian Almond Bars right now! Maybe it’s the simplicity of the recipe that makes it so appealing. With the holidays approaching, many are searching for an easy but impressive treat to share with family and friends. Plus, the unique almond flavor provides a comforting and nostalgic taste that many adore. Whether you’re making them for a gathering or just for yourself, they’re bound to be a hit!
Best Ways to Serve It
Scandinavian Almond Bars are versatile! You can serve them as a delightful snack or a sweet addition to breakfast alongside your morning coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with fresh fruit or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For an extra touch, add a sprinkle of sea salt on top or enjoy them with a drizzle of chocolate!
Helpful Tricks
- Storage Tips: Store your almond bars in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll last for several days.
- Flavor Variations: Try adding some lemon zest or a splash of vanilla to the dough for a different flavor twist!
- Dietary Swaps: If you want to lighten them up, you could use a butter substitute or a lower-sugar option, but this may change the texture a bit.
Scandinavian Almond Bars: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?
It’s best to stick with all-purpose flour for this recipe. Almond flour may change the texture.
How do I store leftover bars?
Keep them in an airtight container to stay fresh. They taste great for days!
Can I freeze Scandinavian Almond Bars?
Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
Give Scandinavian Almond Bars a try, and enjoy all the cozy flavors they bring to your kitchen!
Scandinavian Almond Bars
Delightful bars with buttery goodness and a hint of almond flavor, perfect for coffee breaks or as a cozy afternoon snack.
For the bars
- 1.75 cups 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (220 g)
- 2 tsp 2 tsp baking powder (8 g)
- 0.25 tsp ¼ tsp salt (1 g)
- 0.5 cup ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature (113 g)
- 1 cup 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
- 1 large 1 large egg, room temperature
- 0.5 tsp ½ tsp almond extract (2.5 ml)
- 2 tbsp 2 tbsp whole milk (or low-fat) (30 ml)
- 0.5 cup ½ cup sliced almonds (60 g)
For the icing
- 1 cup 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted (120 g)
- 0.25 tsp ¼ tsp almond extract (or ½ tsp vanilla) (1.25 ml)
- 1-2 tbsp 1–2 tbsp whole milk (or low-fat) (15-30 ml)
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325 °F (165 °C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside for now.
- In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and almond extract to the butter mixture, mixing well until fully combined.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients from the first bowl until it’s just combined. Don’t overmix!
- Divide the dough into four pieces. Shape each piece into a log about 12 inches long.
- Place two logs per baking sheet, making sure to space them out. Flatten each log into a 3-inch-wide strip.
- Brush the tops with a little milk and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
Baking
- Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
- While the bars are still warm, cut them diagonally into 1-inch strips.
Icing
- To make the icing, mix the powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk until smooth.
- Drizzle this over the cooled bars and let it set.
Store your almond bars in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll last for several days. You can also freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months.
