Almond Banket Bars With a Soft Buttery Crust

Almond Banket Bars are a classic treat with deep roots in home baking. They come from a Dutch-style pastry called banket, which is known for its flaky crust and smooth almond filling. These bars keep all the charm of the original pastry but make it easier to bake and share.

The crust is buttery and tender. The filling is sweet, soft, and full of almond flavor. Together, they create a dessert that feels special without being hard to make. These bars are often served during holidays, but they are just as welcome on an ordinary afternoon with a cup of coffee or tea.

If you love almond desserts that feel homemade and comforting, these Bakery Style Ricotta Almond Pillows are worth adding to your recipe box.

What Makes Almond Banket Bars Special

Almond Banket Bars stand out because of their texture and flavor balance. The crust is soft but sturdy enough to hold the filling. It does not crumble too much, which makes slicing easy.

The almond filling is smooth and rich. It is sweet but not overpowering. Almond extract gives it a warm and cozy flavor that feels familiar and comforting.

Another reason these bars are loved is how well they keep. The flavor gets even better the next day, which makes them great for making ahead. They also travel well, so they are perfect for sharing at gatherings.

Ingredients You Will Need

For the Crust

• Two cups all-purpose flour
• One cup unsalted butter softened
• Half cup granulated sugar
• One large egg
• Quarter teaspoon salt

The butter should be soft but not melted. This helps the crust stay tender and easy to press into the pan.

For the Almond Filling

• One can almond paste eight ounces
• Half cup granulated sugar
• Two large eggs
• One teaspoon almond extract

Almond paste is not the same as marzipan. Almond paste has less sugar and gives the filling a richer almond taste.

Optional Topping

• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Sliced almonds for garnish

These are optional but add a nice finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the baking pan

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking pan with parchment paper. Let the paper hang over the sides so you can lift the bars out later. Lightly grease the parchment to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the crust dough

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This takes about two to three minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer.

Add the egg and mix until fully combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl so everything mixes evenly.

Slowly add the flour and salt. Mix on low speed until a soft dough forms. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 3: Press the crust into the pan

Take about two-thirds of the dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Use your hands or the back of a spoon to smooth it into an even layer. Make sure the corners are covered.

Place the pan in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling. This helps the crust hold its shape during baking.

Step 4: Prepare the almond filling

In a separate bowl, break the almond paste into small pieces. Add the sugar and mix until crumbly.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the almond extract. The filling should be smooth and thick with no large lumps.

Take your time with this step. A smooth filling gives the bars a better texture.

Step 5: Spread the filling

Remove the pan from the refrigerator. Spread the almond filling evenly over the crust. Use a spatula to reach the edges and smooth the top.

Step 6: Add the top crust

Take the remaining dough and gently flatten small pieces between your hands. Lay them over the filling, covering as much of the surface as possible. It does not need to be perfect. Small gaps are fine and give the bars a rustic look.

Step 7: Bake the bars

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The top should be lightly golden, and the filling should look set.

If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover the pan with foil for the last few minutes of baking.

Step 8: Cool completely

Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This step is important. The bars need time to firm up so they slice cleanly.

Once cool, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and place them on a cutting board.

Step 9: Slice and finish

Cut the bars into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. Dust with powdered sugar or sprinkle sliced almonds on top if you like.

Helpful Tips for Best Results

• Use real almond paste, not marzipan.
• Let the bars cool fully before slicing.
• Soften butter properly for a tender crust.
• Mix the filling until smooth for best texture.
• Store overnight to improve flavor and firmness.

How to Store Almond Banket Bars

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

You can also freeze the bars for up to two months. Wrap them tightly and thaw at room temperature before serving.

Variations to Try

• Add a thin layer of raspberry jam under the almond filling for a fruity twist.
• Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars.
• Add lemon zest to the filling for brightness.
• Top with sliced almonds before baking for extra crunch.

These variations keep the bars familiar while adding something new.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is almond paste?

Almond paste is made from ground almonds and sugar. It has a strong almond flavor and is used in many traditional baked goods.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes. These bars taste even better the next day, making them perfect for advance baking.

Why did my filling crack?

Cracking can happen if the bars bake too long. Remove them once the top is lightly golden and set.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Use a larger pan and adjust baking time slightly, checking for doneness.

A Sweet Classic Worth Keeping

Almond Banket Bars are the kind of dessert that feels timeless. They are simple, rich, and comforting. The buttery crust and smooth almond filling come together in a way that feels special without being complicated.

These bars work just as well for holidays as they do for everyday treats. Once you make them, they often become a favorite that people ask for again and again.