Nut and Cinnamon Bars

Delicious Nut and Cinnamon Bars

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 12

Welcome to your kitchen, where we will create a simple yet absolutely delicious cake that will delight your taste buds! These nut and cinnamon bars are perfect for packing in your lunch for work or school, but they can also be enjoyed at home alongside a cup of coffee or tea. Inspired by an American recipe, "Pecan Fingers," this dessert has a crunchy and sticky layer that makes it irresistible. Let’s see how we can make this treat step by step!

Ingredients

For the base:
- 200 g margarine (make sure it is at room temperature for easy mixing)
- 100 g powdered sugar (for a fine sweetness)
- 250 g flour (you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option)

For the nut layer:
- 2 eggs (lightly beaten)
- 200 g sugar (or 200 g brown sugar for a more caramelized taste)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (warm and comforting flavor)
- 1 teaspoon cocoa (optional, but adds a hint of chocolate)
- 2 heaping tablespoons of flour (to add consistency)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (to make the cake fluffy)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to balance the sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (the classic flavor)
- 1 cup nuts (coarsely chopped, you can use pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the base
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (low heat). In a large bowl, combine the softened margarine with the powdered sugar and flour. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients until you get a firm, homogeneous dough. This dough will form the base of your cake.

Step 2: Spreading the dough
Use your hands to evenly spread the dough in the baking tray (30x20 cm) lined with parchment paper. Make sure it is evenly distributed on the bottom of the tray. Bake the dough in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until it turns lightly golden.

Step 3: Preparing the nut layer
Meanwhile, prepare the nut layer. In a bowl, combine the sugar, cinnamon, cocoa, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients well. In another bowl, lightly beat the eggs and add them to the dry mixture. Add the vanilla extract and mix with a mixer for a few minutes until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.

Step 4: Adding the nuts
Add the coarsely chopped nuts to the egg mixture and gently fold with a spatula. This combination will add a crunchy texture and delicious flavor to your cake.

Step 5: Final baking
After the base has baked, remove the tray from the oven and pour the nut mixture over the warm base. Spread evenly with a spatula. Bake again at low heat for another 20-25 minutes, until the top is firm and does not stick to your finger when touched.

Step 6: Cooling and cutting
Allow the cake to cool completely in the tray. Once cooled, cut it into bars or squares, depending on your preferences. It is recommended to store the bars in a sealed container at room temperature to prevent them from drying out.

Practical tips:
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can toast the nuts in a pan for a few minutes before adding them to the mixture.
- You can experiment with other types of nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, to achieve different flavors.
- These bars are also excellent served with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce.

Nutritional benefits:
Nuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and essential vitamins. These bars provide quick energy, making them ideal for a healthy snack.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, you can use butter for a richer taste. Make sure it is at room temperature for easy mixing.

2. What can I do if I don’t have powdered sugar?
You can turn granulated sugar into powdered sugar using a blender or food processor.

3. How can I keep the bars fresh for longer?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them.

This nut and cinnamon bar recipe is not only simple but also very versatile. You can adapt the ingredients to your preferences and turn them into the ideal treat for any occasion. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent in the kitchen! Whether you enjoy them with loved ones or share them with friends, these bars are definitely an excellent choice. Bon appétit!