Craving a sweet treat that’s easy to make and sure to impress? Look no further than these homemade Marzipan Bars! Perfect for a cozy night in or to share with loved ones, these bars are a delightful combination of rich almond flavor and a buttery, crumbly base. Indulge in the comforting tastes of marzipan with this simple recipe that is bound to become a favorite in your collection.
**Marzipan Bars**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
– 8 oz marzipan
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Sliced almonds (optional, for topping)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the almond extract and salt, mixing until well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour to the mixture, stirring until a crumbly dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating a solid base for your bars.
4. Roll out the marzipan on a floured surface into a square shape that fits the pan. Carefully place the marzipan on top of the dough layer in the pan.
5. If desired, sprinkle sliced almonds over the top of the marzipan layer for an extra crunch and visual appeal.
6. Bake the bars in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the top is lightly toasted.
7. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial to ensure the bars set properly.
8. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and cut into squares or bars of your desired size.
9. Serve these delectable Marzipan Bars at room temperature and savor the delightful blend of almond and buttery flavors with every bite.
Enjoy these Marzipan Bars as a delightful treat with a cup of tea, share them with friends at your next gathering, or bring them to a holiday party for a festive touch. These bars are not only delicious but also make a lovely homemade gift for special occasions. Give this recipe a try and bring the warmth of homemade goodness into your home!
