Almond Cream Cheese Bars – A Decadent Buttery & Nutty Treat

If you're in search of a dessert that strikes the perfect balance between creamy, sweet, and nutty, Almond Cream Cheese Bars are the answer. With a buttery shortbread crust, rich cream cheese filling, and a delicate almond-flavored frosting, these bars will quickly become a favorite for any occasion. The toasted almonds add a subtle crunch, creating a satisfying texture contrast with the smooth, creamy layers. Whether you're preparing these for a holiday gathering, a special treat, or simply to indulge in something delicious, these bars are sure to impress.

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Originating from a classic cream cheese bar recipe, this version incorporates the warm and slightly sweet flavor of almonds. Almond extract gives the filling and frosting a light, fragrant twist, while toasted almonds on top provide the perfect finish. It’s a simple recipe with layers of texture and flavor that come together in every bite.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 16 Servings):

• Calories: 285 kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 125mg
• Sugar: 18g

Tip: These bars are rich enough to stand on their own, but you can serve them with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store: Keep your Almond Cream Cheese Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.To reheat: If you'd like to serve them warm, you can reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

Tip: You can also freeze these bars! Simply wrap them in plastic wrap and then foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge.

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Almond Cream Cheese Bars Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2 cups flour

For the Filling:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon almond extract

For the Frosting:

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 tablespoons milk
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 cup toasted sliced almonds

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Make the crust:In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Slowly add in the flour and mix until the dough comes together.Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden. Remove and let cool while preparing the filling.
3. Prepare the filling:In another medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, followed by the almond extract, and mix until well combined.Pour the filling over the cooled crust and spread it out evenly.
4. Bake:Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden around the edges. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely.
5. Make the frosting:In a bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, milk, softened butter, and almond extract until smooth and creamy. Add more milk, if needed, to achieve your desired consistency.Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars.
6. Add the toasted almonds:Sprinkle the toasted sliced almonds over the frosting, pressing them lightly so they adhere. Let the bars chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set.
7. Slice and serve:Once the frosting has set, cut the bars into squares and enjoy!

Tip: For extra crunch, lightly toast the sliced almonds in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

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Final Thoughts

These Almond Cream Cheese Bars are a delightful, indulgent treat that combines buttery shortbread, creamy almond-flavored filling, and a sweet, nutty topping. They're easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dessert to an elegant gathering. Toasting the almonds before adding them on top enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to every bite.

Enjoy the creamy, nutty flavors in every delicious square!