Get ready to fall head over heels for these Strawberry Almond Shortbread Bars. Imagine layers of buttery, crumbly shortbread, a shimmering ribbon of sweet strawberry jam, and a scattering of toasted almonds—all in one blissful bite. These bars are a little celebration of comfort and sophistication, perfect for a cozy afternoon with coffee or for impressing guests at a spring gathering. If you’re a fan of easy baking with big rewards, this is the recipe to bookmark and make over and over.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Strawberry Almond Shortbread Bars truly special is how each simple ingredient works its magic, building a treat that’s tender, bright, and just the right touch of indulgent. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few tips for next-level results.
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation that gives your bars that delicious shortbread crumb; don’t substitute or you’ll miss that classic texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the base and helps create those mouthwatering golden edges.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and coaxes out the buttery flavor.
- Unsalted butter (cold and cubed): The star player for a melt-in-your-mouth shortbread; chill your butter for maximum flakiness.
- Strawberry jam: Adds color, fruitiness, and the perfect gooey layer; use your favorite high-quality jam for best results.
- Sliced almonds: Offer a lovely crunch and delicate nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with strawberries.
- Almond extract: A splash elevates the aroma and makes each bite irresistibly fancy.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional): A final flourish for visual appeal and a hint of bakery-style sweetness.
How to Make Strawberry Almond Shortbread Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang so you can easily lift out the bars later. This simple trick makes cutting and serving a total breeze.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Give them a quick whisk to blend. Now add your cold, cubed butter and cut it into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter, fork, or even your fingers. Work it in until the mixture looks like coarse, buttery crumbs—think wet sand with pebbles. This texture is key to the tender bite of your Strawberry Almond Shortbread Bars.
Step 3: Form the Crust
Scoop out and reserve 1 cup of the crumbly mixture for the topping. Press the rest of the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Don’t be afraid to really press it in, making sure there are no gaps. This creates that classic, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread base.
Step 4: Blind Bake the Base
Pop the pan in the oven and bake the crust for 15 minutes, just until it starts to turn a lovely light golden. This quick bake gives the bars structure and prevents sogginess from the jam layer later on.
Step 5: Add the Jam & Almond Touch
Let the crust cool for about 5 minutes out of the oven. Then, spread the strawberry jam evenly across the warm shortbread—aim for edge-to-edge coverage! Drizzle the almond extract over the jam for an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen.
Step 6: Top, Bake, and Finish
Sprinkle the reserved shortbread crumbs all over the jam layer, then scatter the sliced almonds on top. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for a golden crumb topping and bubbling jam. Once baked, let everything cool completely in the pan (the wait is worth it!). Lift out the slab using the parchment overhang and cut into sixteen inviting bars. For a bakery-style finish, dust with powdered sugar just before serving—then prepare yourself for compliments!
How to Serve Strawberry Almond Shortbread Bars
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar isn’t just pretty—it gives your Strawberry Almond Shortbread Bars that irresistible “just baked” look. For extra flair, add a few fresh strawberry slices or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted almonds right before serving. If you’re feeling creative, a hint of lemon zest brightens the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with a pitcher of chilled iced tea or a pot of strong, aromatic coffee for a classic combo. For something extra decadent, serve alongside whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a fruit salad loaded with seasonal berries—it’s a treat that brings out the best in every bite!
Creative Ways to Present
Plating these bars on a rustic wooden board, alongside clusters of fresh strawberries and whole almonds, makes for a show-stopping centerpiece at brunches or showers. Try serving them in cupcake liners for easy grabbing at parties, or wrap individual bars in parchment and tie with twine for sweet homemade gifts that are always appreciated.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Strawberry Almond Shortbread Bars are wonderfully sturdy and keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Layer parchment or wax paper between bars to keep the jam from sticking.
Freezing
If you want to stash some bars away for a rainy day, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
While these bars are fantastic at room temp, if you prefer a warm treat, pop individual bars in the microwave for just 10-15 seconds. If you’re reheating several at once, a quick turn in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes will do the trick—just long enough to refresh them without melting the jam.
FAQs
Can I use a different jam flavor?
Absolutely! Strawberry is a classic, but raspberry, apricot, or even a tangy cherry jam all taste delicious and give you new ways to enjoy these shortbread bars. Just stick with a smooth jam for easy spreading.
Do I have to use almond extract?
If you’re not a fan of almond flavor, feel free to leave it out—the bars will still be delicious. You can swap in a little vanilla extract if you prefer a more subtle touch.
Should I toast the sliced almonds first?
Toasting the almonds adds extra crunch and a deeper nutty flavor, but it’s totally optional. If you’re short on time, the almonds will still toast nicely in the oven as the bars bake.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, just double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time, so keep an eye on the color and bubbling jam.
What’s the best way to cut clean, neat bars?
Let the baked slab cool completely in the pan, then use the parchment overhang to lift it out. Use a long, sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for those perfect bakery-style squares.
Final Thoughts
There’s something endlessly charming about homemade Strawberry Almond Shortbread Bars—they’re easy to make, elegant to serve, and simply irresistible with every bite. Whether you bake them for a special occasion or as a sweet weekend reward, you’ll love how they turn simple ingredients into something truly memorable. Give them a try and watch how quickly they become everyone’s new favorite treat!
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Strawberry Almond Shortbread Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Strawberry Almond Shortbread Bars are a delightful treat with a buttery shortbread base, sweet strawberry jam filling, and crunchy almond topping. Perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Shortbread Base:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Filling and Topping:
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang.
- Mix Shortbread Base: In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly. Reserve 1 cup for topping, press the rest into the pan, and bake.
- Add Filling: Spread jam over warm crust, sprinkle with almond extract, top with reserved crumbs and almonds.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. Cool, then cut into bars.
Notes
- Try different jams for variety.
- Store bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
