Soft Almond Bars

Almond bars are delightful treat that are made with a shortbread-like base and topped with sliced almonds and a sweet almond glaze. They can be enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or even for breakfast.

Makes 24 bars

Ingredients:

Bars:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 4 teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 cup butter, softened

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon almond extract

• 2 Tablespoons milk

• 1 cup sliced almonds

Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• ½ teaspoon almond extract

• 2 Tablespoons milk

  
  

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease a half sheet pan (approximately 18"x13"). Set aside.

2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until they are light and fluffy, which should take about 4-6 minutes. Add the eggs and almond extract, beating until everything is well mixed. Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing until fully combined.

4. Press the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top of the dough using your fingers or a pastry roller.

5. With a pastry brush, apply the milk to the surface of the dough (you might not need to use it all). Scatter sliced almonds on top, gently pressing them into the dough.

6. Bake for 20-22 minutes until done. You don’t want to brown these bars.

7. Let them cool for approximately 5 minutes, then slice them into bars using a knife (I usually cut them into 4 rows of 6). If they are too soft to slice, let them cool for a few more minutes. Gently transfer the sliced bars to a wire rack to finish cooling.

8. After they have cooled, prepare your glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk. Drizzle the glaze over the bars and allow it to set. Enjoy!

NOTES: Store in an airtight container, or place in freezer bags and freeze.