Scandinavian Almond Bars are a traditional Northern European treat known for their delicate almond flavor, buttery texture, and lightly crisp edges. They are simple to prepare yet incredibly elegant, making them perfect for holidays, coffee breaks, and dessert platters. Unlike classic cookies that require scooping or rolling, this recipe uses an easy “strip baking” method: you shape the dough into logs, flatten them, bake, slice, and drizzle with icing.
These bars combine a soft cookie interior with toasted almonds on top, creating the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced cook, Scandinavian Almond Bars are quick, reliable, and always crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 2 tablespoons milk (for brushing the strips)
- ½ cup sliced almonds
For the Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (to adjust consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Oven
Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line two baking trays with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- flour
- baking powder
- salt
Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and almond extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
4. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture.
Mix on low speed until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
5. Shape the Dough
Divide the dough into four equal parts.
Roll each piece into a 12-inch log, then place two logs per baking sheet.
Press each log gently to flatten it into a 3-inch-wide strip.
6. Add Milk and Almonds
Brush the tops of the dough strips with milk.
Sprinkle sliced almonds generously on top.
7. Bake
Bake for 12–14 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
8. Slice While Warm
Remove the trays from the oven.
While the strips are still warm, cut each one diagonally into 1-inch bars.
Allow the bars to cool completely.
9. Prepare the Icing
Mix the powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk until smooth and drizzle-ready.
Adjust with a few drops of milk if needed.
10. Drizzle and Serve
Once the bars have cooled, drizzle the icing generously over them.
Let the icing set before serving or storing.
Texture, Flavor, and Why This Recipe Works
Scandinavian Almond Bars offer a perfect balance of textures:
- a soft, buttery cookie base
- lightly crisp edges
- crunchy toasted almonds
- a sweet almond-flavored glaze
The almond extract enhances the naturally nutty taste, while the icing adds sweetness without overpowering the delicate flavor of the bars.
Their unique cutting method creates bakery-style diagonal slices that look beautiful on a dessert platter.
Serving Suggestions
These bars pair wonderfully with:
- hot coffee or espresso
- herbal tea
- hot chocolate
- vanilla ice cream
They’re also ideal for holiday cookie boxes, festive brunch tables, or as an afternoon sweet treat.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freeze fully baked bars (without icing) for up to 3 months.
- Freeze the dough for future baking if needed.
Conclusion
Scandinavian Almond Bars are simple, elegant, and packed with warm almond flavor. Their ease of preparation makes them perfect for beginners, while their taste and presentation impress even experienced bakers. Whether you’re preparing a holiday dessert table or want a quick and delicious homemade treat, this recipe is a timeless classic that never disappoints.