Dutch Letter Bars are a simple yet elegant dessert inspired by the classic Dutch almond pastry. Rich, buttery, and delicately sweet, these bars feature the unmistakable flavor of almond paste with a crisp sugar topping. They’re perfect for holidays, coffee breaks, or anytime you want an easy baked treat with old-world charm.
Ingredients
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1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
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2 cups granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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8 oz almond paste
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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2 tablespoons granulated sugar, for topping
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking pan with butter.
(You may also use a 9×13-inch pan for thinner bars.)
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and 2 cups granulated sugar together for 3–4 minutes, until light and airy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Almond Paste
Mix in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. Add the almond paste and mix until smooth and evenly blended.
Step 4: Add the Flour
Add the flour and mix just until combined, stopping as soon as no dry spots remain. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Bake
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons sugar evenly over the surface.
Bake:
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45 minutes for a 9×9-inch pan
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35 minutes for a 9×13-inch pan
The top should be lightly golden when done.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares or rectangles.
Tips for Best Results
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Make sure the butter is fully softened for easy mixing
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Almond paste blends more smoothly if broken into small pieces first
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Let the bars cool fully to achieve clean slices
Serving Suggestions
Serve Dutch Letter Bars:
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With coffee or tea
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As a holiday dessert
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Lightly dusted with powdered sugar
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Alongside fresh berries
Storage
Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.