Imagine biting into a heavenly treat that combines the nutty richness of almonds with a burst of bright, citrusy orange – these Orange Almond Cookie Bars are about to become your new obsession! Perfect for those who crave a sophisticated twist on classic cookie bars, this recipe promises to elevate your dessert game with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you're looking for a quick afternoon snack or an impressive treat to wow your guests, these bars are your golden ticket to dessert paradise.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine almond flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk together until well blended and no lumps remain.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly with a spatula until a cohesive cookie dough forms. The mixture should be slightly thick and hold together well.
- Transfer the dough into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the mixture evenly, pressing it into all corners of the pan.
- Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly across the top of the dough, gently pressing them into the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set but still slightly soft.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour. The bars will firm up as they cool.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board. Cut into 16 even squares.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Zest Matters: Use fresh orange zest for the most vibrant citrus flavor. Roll the orange on the counter before zesting to release more essential oils.
- Flour Power: Sift your almond and all-purpose flour to prevent any lumps and ensure a smooth, consistent dough.
- Even Spreading: Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the dough evenly in the pan, ensuring uniform baking.
- Almond Placement: When sprinkling sliced almonds, press them gently into the dough so they stick and toast beautifully during baking.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This helps them set and makes cutting clean, neat squares much easier.
- Storage Tip: For maximum freshness, store in an airtight container. If you want them to last longer, refrigeration can extend their shelf life to up to a week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 30mg
