As I took my first bite of a freshly baked Scandinavian Almond Bar, the nostalgic aroma of buttery shortbread and toasted almonds transported me to a quaint café in Copenhagen. These delightful treats, with their simple yet irresistible charm, are perfect for anyone who craves homemade comfort without the fuss. It’s hard to believe how easy they are to whip up—ideal for gathering friends around the coffee table or simply enjoying a snack during a quiet afternoon. Plus, these bars are freezer-friendly, allowing you to enjoy a taste of Scandinavia anytime the mood strikes. Are you ready to bring a little sweetness into your home? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are Scandinavian Almond Bars a must-try?
Irresistible Sweetness: These Scandinavian Almond Bars offer a delightful combination of buttery shortbread and crunchy almonds, creating an unforgettable flavor sensation.
Quick to Make: In just a few simple steps, you can treat yourself and your loved ones to these delectable bars. Perfect for those busy days!
Freezer-Friendly: Enjoy the convenience of making a batch ahead of time; they store beautifully for future cravings.
Versatile Pairing: Whether served with coffee, tea, or as a sweet snack, they fit seamlessly into any occasion.
Nostalgic Comfort: Each bite transports you to a cozy café, providing that warm, homemade feel you crave—just like in the recipe for Cranberry Crumble Bars or Brulee Cheesecake Bars. Enjoy the sweet comfort of your own kitchen!
Scandinavian Almond Bars Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – This forms the structure of the bars, creating that perfect shortbread texture.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring a light and airy texture.
- Salt – A pinch enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
- Unsalted Butter (room temperature) – Brings richness and tenderness, making the bars melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough while contributing to a delightful crunch.
- Egg (room temperature) – Binds everything together and adds moisture to the bars.
- Almond Extract – Infuses the bars with that signature flavor; for a milder taste, use vanilla extract instead.
For the Topping
- Sliced Almonds – Adds a delightful crunch and amplifies the almond flavor beautifully.
For the Icing
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and decoratively finishes the bars for a lovely presentation.
- Whole Milk – Provides moisture; feel free to use low-fat milk as a substitute for the icing.
- Additional Almond Extract or Vanilla (for icing) – Enhances flavor and ties all the elements together.
Enjoy creating these joyful Scandinavian Almond Bars; they’re simple yet extraordinarily satisfying!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Scandinavian Almond Bars
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While it warms, line two baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring the surface is ready for the Scandinavian Almond Bars. This preparation helps prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt until thoroughly combined. This blend of dry ingredients forms the foundation of the bars. Set the bowl aside as you move on to the wet ingredients, ensuring your dry mix remains fresh.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of unsalted butter (at room temperature) and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, around 3–5 minutes. The butter should appear creamy and pale, providing a rich base for your Scandinavian Almond Bars.
Step 4: Add Egg and Extract
Once the butter and sugar are fluffy, add 1 egg (room temperature) and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Mix on low speed until everything is well incorporated, about 30 seconds. This step adds moisture and infuses the bars with that signature almond flavor, enhancing their overall appeal.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry flour mixture into the wet butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can affect the texture of your Scandinavian Almond Bars. The resulting dough should be soft but not sticky, with an inviting almond scent filling your kitchen.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Divide the dough into four equal pieces, rolling each piece into a log about 12 inches long. Arrange two logs per lined baking sheet, pressing gently to flatten each log into a 3-inch-wide strip. This shaping ensures even baking and highlights the bar’s classic shortbread style.
Step 7: Add Toppings
Brush the tops of each log with a splash of whole milk, allowing the crust to develop a beautiful golden color once baked. Generously sprinkle sliced almonds over the surface, pressing them lightly into the dough to secure them during baking. The nuts will add a delightful crunch to your finished bars.
Step 8: Bake the Bars
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the bars for 12–14 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when the edges turn lightly golden. Remove them from the oven and let cool slightly on the sheets before cutting, ensuring the delicate bars maintain their shape.
Step 9: Cut the Bars
While the bars are still warm, use a sharp knife to cut them diagonally into 1-inch strips. This technique creates appealing bite-sized pieces that are perfect for sharing. Allow the bars to cool completely on the baking sheets to solidify their structure.
Step 10: Prepare the Icing
For the icing, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar with 1 tablespoon of almond extract and 2 tablespoons of whole milk until smooth. The icing should be pourable but thick enough to stay on the surface of your Scandinavian Almond Bars for added sweetness.
Step 11: Drizzle Icing and Set
Finally, drizzle the icing over the cooled bars, letting it cascade and coat their surfaces. Allow the icing to set at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. This step completes your Scandinavian Almond Bars, making them not only delicious but visually inviting too.
Scandinavian Almond Bars: Endless Possibilities
Feel free to get creative with your Scandinavian Almond Bars and tailor them to satisfy your cravings!
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Nutty Twist: Substitute sliced almonds with hazelnuts or pistachios for a unique crunch. The rich flavors will surprise and delight you.
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Vanilla Icing: Use vanilla extract instead of almond extract for the icing to create a milder taste. This subtle change can enhance the overall sweetness beautifully.
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Thicker Bars: Instead of shaping into logs, press the dough into a 9×13” pan for thicker, more cake-like bars. They’ll be extra soft and scrumptious!
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Coconut Delight: Add shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical vibe. The coconut pairs wonderfully with the almonds, creating a luscious treat.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the bars instead of icing. This adds a rich depth that complements the almond flavor exceptionally.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm spice note. It gives the bars a cozy, comforting feel, perfect for chilly days.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to keep these bars gluten-free while still retaining their delightful texture and flavor.
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Berry Accents: Blend in dried cranberries or cherries for a tangy burst of flavor. This variation adds a beautiful contrast to the sweet richness of the bars.
Try any of these variations to make your Scandinavian Almond Bars uniquely yours! The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. For more delightful recipes, explore these tempting options: Cranberry Crumble Bars and Brulee Cheesecake Bars. Enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
These Scandinavian Almond Bars are a fantastic candidate for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeks! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you want to get even further ahead, the shaped but unbaked logs can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them directly from the freezer—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. The key to maintaining quality is to ensure the bars are completely cool before icing, allowing you to savor their delightful flavors just as if you made them fresh that day!
What to Serve with Scandinavian Almond Bars
Indulging in these sweet, nutty bars opens up a world of delightful pairings to create a full and satisfying culinary experience.
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Rich Coffee: The robust flavor of a hot cup of coffee enhances the buttery sweetness of the bars, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.
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Herbal Tea: A fragrant herbal tea balances the sweetness of the bars, offering a refreshing and calming contrast, bringing a sense of tranquility.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a burst of tartness that beautifully complements the almond flavor, creating a vibrant and colorful dessert plate.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream against the crunchy bars creates a wonderful contrast, turning dessert into a heavenly delight.
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Lemonade: A glass of zesty lemonade brightens the palate, providing a refreshing burst that cuts through the richness of the almond bars.
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Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate adds depth and a hint of bitterness, making every bite of the bars even more indulgent.
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Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt topped with honey can lend creaminess and a lightness to the experience, making for a nice balance of flavors.
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Spiced Cider: Warm spiced cider envelops you in cozy flavors, making it an ideal drink companion for these heartwarming treats.
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Sweet Biscotti: Pairing with a crispy almond biscotti offers a delightful crunch that’s sure to elevate your snack time to elegant tea time.
Expert Tips for Scandinavian Almond Bars
Avoid Overbaking: Remove the bars when edges are just golden to maintain a tender texture. Overbaking can lead to dryness.
Refrigerate Dough: Chill the dough for 30 minutes before shaping; this makes it easier to work with and enhances the flavor.
Precision in Measurements: Use a kitchen scale for accuracy in measuring flour and sugar, ensuring consistent results every time you make these Scandinavian Almond Bars.
Experiment with Nuts: Feel free to substitute sliced almonds with hazelnuts or pistachios for a delicious twist. Just keep the quantities similar for best results.
Proper Storage: Store the cut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to keep them fresh and delightful.
How to Store and Freeze Scandinavian Almond Bars
Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This keeps them fresh and ready for snacking.
Fridge: If you prefer the bars chilled, you can store them in the fridge; just make sure they’re well wrapped to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the baked bars with parchment paper between layers for up to three months. Thaw before serving for the best taste.
Reheating: If you’d like to warm them up, briefly microwave a bar for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring it’s just warm and not hot to preserve the lovely texture of the Scandinavian Almond Bars.
Scandinavian Almond Bars Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! When choosing almonds, look for whole nut varieties without dark spots or signs of rancidity. For butter, ensure it’s fresh and kept at room temperature for optimal creaming. Always check the expiration date on your eggs as well; they should be clean and free from cracks.
How should I store Scandinavian Almond Bars, and how long do they last?
Store your Scandinavian Almond Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want them to last longer, they can be refrigerated, but make sure they are well wrapped to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Scandinavian Almond Bars, and if so, how?
Very much! To freeze these bars, first let them cool completely. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
What should I do if my bars are too crumbly or dry?
If your bars come out too crumbly, it may be due to overbaking or not enough moisture in the dough. Ensure you’re measuring your ingredients accurately, and consider adding an extra tablespoon of milk or butter next time to increase moisture. Bake just until the edges are lightly golden, to keep that tender texture!
Are Scandinavian Almond Bars suitable for people with nut allergies?
These bars contain nuts, specifically almonds, which can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. If you have allergies, you might want to try substituting the almonds with sunflower seeds or omit the nuts entirely while still enjoying the buttery flavor and sweetness of the shortbread. Always consult with a healthcare provider for dietary concerns.
What’s a good alternative if I don’t have almond extract?
If almond extract is unavailable, using vanilla extract is a great option! While it won’t have the same distinct nutty flavor, it will still add a lovely sweetness to your Scandinavian Almond Bars. Just substitute it at a 1:1 ratio for the almond extract in the recipe.
Scandinavian Almond Bars: Irresistibly Sweet, Quick & Simple
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar together until fluffy, about 3–5 minutes.
- Add in the egg and almond extract, mixing until well combined.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Divide dough into four pieces, roll each into a log approximately 12 inches long, and flatten.
- Brush tops with milk and sprinkle sliced almonds on top, pressing them into the dough.
- Bake for 12–14 minutes until edges are lightly golden, then cool slightly on sheets.
- Cut into 1-inch strips while warm and let cool completely.
- For the icing, whisk powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over bars.
- Allow icing to set for about 20 minutes before serving.
