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Bready or Not: Dutch Letter Bars

These delicious almond and fruit bars are inspired by a traditional Dutch pastry. This is modified from a recipe in Better Homes & Gardens Christmas Cookies 2021.
Author: Beth Cato

Equipment

  • 13x9 pan
  • aluminum foil
  • nonstick cooking spray

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks) softened
  • 7-8 ounces almond paste store-bought or homemade
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups white sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup raspberry jam or mixed fruit jam
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds
  • 1 Tablespoon turbinado sugar

Instructions

  • Preheat oven at 350 degrees. Line the 13x9 pan with foil. Add a coating of nonstick spray.
  • In a large bowl, beat together butter, almond paste, and eggs. Add the white sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Gradually beat in the flour until combined. Spread dough in the prepared pan.
  • Measure the jam into a microwave-safe bowl and gently warm until it is soft and spreadable. Dollop the jam on top of the dough and spread out, swirling with dough slightly. Sprinkle the almonds on top followed by the turbinado sugar.
  • Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a toothpick in the middle comes out clean. Cool completely.
  • Use the foil to lift the contents onto a cutting board, slice into bars. If stacking in storage containers, place waxed paper to make it tidier. Store at room temperature.

OM NOM NOM!