Fall is the perfect time to gather friends and family for some cozy baking sessions. If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the flavors of classic thumbprint cookies with the ease of making bars, then these Tom Thumb Cookie Bars are just what you need. These bars are a festive addition to any occasion, with a buttery shortbread base filled with your favorite jam and topped with a crumbly, nutty streusel. Let’s get baking!
Tom Thumb Cookie Bars
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup your favorite fruit jam or preserves
– 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing until a crumbly dough forms. The dough should hold together when gently pressed between your fingers.
4. Press two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a smooth and compact base for your bars.
5. Spread the fruit jam over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent the jam from sticking to the sides.
6. In a small bowl, combine the remaining dough with the chopped nuts. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
7. Sprinkle the nut mixture evenly over the jam layer, gently pressing it down with your fingertips to create a rustic, crumbly topping.
8. Bake the Tom Thumb Cookie Bars in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
9. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into squares.
10. Dust the tops of the cooled bars with confectioners’ sugar for a beautiful finishing touch before serving.
These Tom Thumb Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic thumbprint cookies, perfect for sharing with loved ones over a cup of tea or coffee. The buttery shortbread base paired with your favorite jam and crunchy nut streusel make these bars a true crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the warm flavors of fall with every bite of these delicious treats. Happy baking!
