Decadent Mixed Nut Shortbread Bars
Indulge in these Decadent Mixed Nut Shortbread Bars, a delightful blend of buttery goodness and crunchy nutty textures. Inspired by a gourmet magazine recipe, this treat is not only quick and easy to prepare but also irresistible. Each bite melts in your mouth while the salted mixed nuts provide a satisfying contrast. Perfect for afternoon tea, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet snack, these shortbread bars are sure to impress family and friends alike.
18
Servings
100
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Butter
1/2 cup (at room temperature)
Sugar
1/3 cup (for dough)
Flour
1 cup (all-purpose)
Vanilla Extract
1/2 teaspoon (pure)
Sugar
1 tablespoon (for topping)
Salted Mixed Nuts
3/4 cup (chopped or whole)
Cooking Spray
as needed (for greasing the pan)
Instructions
1
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Lightly spray an 8x8-inch baking pan with cooking spray and set aside.
3
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and 1/3 cup of sugar. Use a wooden spoon to mix until the mixture is well blended and creamy.
4
Add the vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until fully incorporated.
5
Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture and use your hands to knead it gently until a soft, cohesive dough forms.
6
Transfer the dough into the prepared baking pan. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the pan to create a smooth layer.
7
Evenly sprinkle the chopped or whole salted mixed nuts over the surface of the dough, followed by the tablespoon of sugar for added sweetness and texture.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
9
Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly in the pan before cutting into 18 bars.
10
Serve and enjoy the rich, buttery flavors of your homemade mixed nut shortbread!
Nutrition Information
7g
Fat
8.3g
Carbs
1.7g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Mixed Nut Shortbread Bars?
These bars are a rich blend of buttery shortbread and crunchy salted mixed nuts, creating a gourmet treat that is easy to prepare.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 18 bars.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C).
What size baking pan is required?
You should use an 8x8-inch baking pan.
How should I prepare the baking pan?
Lightly spray the baking pan with cooking spray before adding the dough.
What kind of butter is used in the shortbread?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of butter at room temperature.
How much sugar is included in the dough?
The dough requires 1/3 cup of sugar.
Is there a sugar topping for these bars?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of sugar is sprinkled over the nuts before baking.
What type of nuts are best for this recipe?
Use 3/4 cup of salted mixed nuts, which can be either whole or chopped.
What type of flour is needed?
The recipe specifies 1 cup of all-purpose flour.
How do I combine the butter and sugar?
Mix the softened butter and sugar with a wooden spoon until the mixture is creamy and well blended.
When should I add the vanilla extract?
Add 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture after it is creamy.
How is the flour added to the dough?
Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture and knead it gently by hand until a soft dough forms.
Do I need an electric mixer?
No, the dough can be prepared using a wooden spoon and your hands.
How do I place the dough in the pan?
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared 8x8-inch pan to form a smooth layer.
How do I add the nut topping?
Sprinkle the nuts evenly over the dough, followed by the tablespoon of sugar.
What is the total baking time?
Bake the bars for 20 to 25 minutes.
How do I know the bars are finished baking?
The bars are done when the edges are lightly golden and the center is set.
Should I cool the bars before cutting?
Yes, allow the bars to cool slightly in the pan before cutting them into 18 pieces.
What is the calorie count for one shortbread bar?
Each bar contains approximately 100 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 7 grams of fat in each bar.
How many carbohydrates are in each serving?
Each bar contains 8.3 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein is in one bar?
Each bar provides 1.7 grams of protein.
What category of cookie is this?
This recipe is classified as a Bar Cookie.
Can I use whole nuts instead of chopped nuts?
Yes, the recipe allows for either whole or chopped salted mixed nuts.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is described as a quick and easy recipe with simple preparation steps.
What are the primary flavors of this dessert?
The main flavors are rich butter, vanilla, and salted nuts.
Are these bars suitable for holiday gifting?
Yes, these decadent bars are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift.
What is the texture of the shortbread?
The shortbread has a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture contrasted by the crunchy nuts.
Does the recipe require salt?
The recipe relies on salted mixed nuts to provide a satisfying salt contrast, so no extra salt is needed in the dough.