Handwritten recipe for Dutch Almond Bars
by: salvagedrecipes

Dutch Almond Coconut Bars

Dutch Almond Bars
Dutch Almond Bars are a classic treat known for their rich, buttery base and sweet, nutty topping. Likely influenced by Dutch baking traditions, they combine simple pantry staples with shredded coconut and almonds to create a chewy, golden dessert bar. This recipe features a two-layer process, starting with a shortbread-like bottom and followed by a sugary almond topping that caramelizes as it bakes. Beloved for their texture and sweet almond flavor, they’re perfect for holidays, bake sales, or family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American, Fusion
Servings 16 bars
Calories 295 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Bottom Layer:

  • ¾ cup shortening
  • 3 tbsp sugar
  • 1 ½ cups flour

For the Topping:

  • 6 beaten eggs
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 cups coconut (shredded, sweetened)
  • 3 tbsp almond flavoring (or extract)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Base

  • Mix shortening, sugar, and flour together.
  • Press into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch pan.
  • Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Topping

  • Beat eggs in a large bowl.
  • Add sugar, coconut, and almond flavoring.
  • Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Bake the Bars

  • Spread the topping mixture over the baked base.
  • Return to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes at 350°F.
  • Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Tips

  • Substitute butter for shortening to give the crust a richer flavor.
  • Add a pinch of salt to the crust for better balance.
  • Toast the coconut lightly for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
  • Replace some coconut with finely chopped almonds for extra crunch.
  • Add ½ tsp vanilla extract to the topping for added aroma.
  • Drizzle finished bars with a simple almond glaze.
  • Line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal and slicing.
  • Use almond extract instead of “almond flavoring” if preferred.
  • Cool fully before cutting to prevent crumbling.
  • Add lemon zest to brighten the flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 295kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 3gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 64mgSodium: 20mgPotassium: 52mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 120IUCalcium: 12mgIron: 1mg
Keyword bake from scratch, coconut almond bars, comfort food, dessert bars, heirloom recipe, potluck dessert, vintage baking
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