If you’re searching for an extraordinary dessert that combines rich, buttery flavor with delicate flakiness and a delightful almond essence, these easy Dutch Letter Bars are an absolute must-try! This recipe offers a convenient and accessible way to experience the beloved sweet notes found in traditional Dutch Letter pastries, all within a simple, irresistible bar format. Crafted with a harmonious blend of premium almond paste, fine granulated sugar, and a hint of pure almond extract, every bite promises a symphony of flavors that will undoubtedly leave you completely smitten. Forget complicated pastry techniques; these bars deliver authentic Dutch deliciousness with minimal effort, making them perfect for any home baker.
The inspiration for these delightful bars actually bloomed from an unexpected conversation during a cozy dinner with our dear friends, Todd and Traci. As is often the case when Todd and my husband, Brian, are together – given their shared history of racing cars for over two decades – the discussion inevitably veered towards the thrilling world of motorsports. They started reminiscing about a particular race in Knoxville, Iowa, and spontaneously suggested we embark on a road trip to witness the spectacle. My eyes, I must admit, probably glazed over with a polite, albeit profound, disinterest. Having spent countless weekends observing cars circle a track, I felt I had reached my quota. Sensing my waning enthusiasm, Traci, ever the perceptive friend, cleverly pivoted the conversation. She brought up the renowned bakery they always make a point to visit in Pella, Iowa – a charming town conveniently close to Knoxville – specifically for their legendary Dutch Letter Bars. Suddenly, my interest was piqued. The allure of a unique, regional pastry sounded far more appealing than another race.
Just a couple of weeks after that memorable dinner, a serendipitous chat with my friend Betsy brought the topic of that specific Iowa region back into focus. I still can’t recall how the conversation turned, but I found myself asking her if she had ever tasted a Dutch Letter. Her response was enthusiastic. She confirmed their deliciousness but confessed that when a craving strikes, she invariably opts for her cherished Dutch Letter Bar recipe. Why? Because, as she explained, they are significantly easier and quicker to prepare than their traditional counterparts. Her endorsement was all I needed. I immediately gathered the necessary ingredients, eager to try this simplified version. From the very first buttery, almond-infused bite, I was utterly captivated. These bars delivered all the wonderful flavors with none of the fuss, transforming a regional delicacy into an accessible home baking triumph.
Dutch Letter Bars: A Simplified Delicacy
Gooey, incredibly soft, and wonderfully sweet, these Dutch Letter Bars offer a more convenient and equally delightful way to savor the classic almond flavors synonymous with traditional Dutch Letter pastries. Whether I’m baking them to share during the festive holidays, as a comforting treat on a chilly evening, or simply as a satisfying dessert any time of year, there’s an undeniable magic to the subtle yet profound taste of almond paste, baked into a tender, luscious filling. Each bar captures the essence of this beloved Dutch delicacy, transforming a sometimes intricate pastry into an effortlessly enjoyable dessert. The rich almond filling, encased in a buttery, flaky crust, creates a textural paradise that is both familiar and exciting, promising a truly memorable culinary experience.
Known by various names such as banketletter or boterletters in their native Netherlands, Dutch Letter pastries are renowned for being both culturally unique and incredibly comforting. What makes this particular Dutch Letter Bar recipe truly exceptional is the freedom it offers from the traditional, time-consuming process of meticulously shaping the pastry dough into the form of a letter. This simplified bar approach means you can achieve all the exquisite flavors and textures without the extra fuss, making it perfect for busy bakers who still want to impress. It’s a game-changer for anyone who appreciates the rich heritage of Dutch baking but prefers a more straightforward method. Isn’t that truly amazing? It allows you to focus on enjoying the process and, more importantly, the end result.
Effortless Baking: Easy Dutch Almond Paste Bars
Preparing these decadent Dutch almond paste bars couldn’t be simpler! This recipe truly redefines easy baking, allowing you to whip up a batch of these irresistible treats with just a handful of staple pantry ingredients. You won’t need any specialized equipment or complex techniques. From start to finish, these bars can be ready to enjoy in well under 30 minutes, thanks to a few incredibly straightforward steps. Imagine having a warm, homemade dessert, brimming with rich almond flavor, on your table in no time at all. It’s the perfect solution for last-minute guests, a quick craving, or simply when you want a delicious homemade treat without spending hours in the kitchen. The minimal prep and cook time make this a go-to recipe for any occasion.
The Rich Heritage: History of Dutch Letters
The story of Dutch Letters is deeply intertwined with Dutch culture and traditions, particularly during the festive season. Traditionally celebrated with great enthusiasm in the Netherlands, these distinctive pastries are a highlight of various festivals and especially central to a cherished holiday known as Sinterklaasavond. This joyful, gift-giving occasion takes place annually on the fifth and sixth of December, preceding Christmas. During Sinterklaasavond, Dutch Letters are often custom-shaped into the first letters of Dutch families’ surnames, adding a personal and heartfelt touch to the celebrations. This tradition makes them not just a delicious treat, but a meaningful symbol of family, generosity, and holiday cheer. The act of sharing these pastries is a beautiful way to connect with cultural roots and celebrate together.
The tradition of Dutch Letters found a new home in North America, specifically in the charming town of Pella, Iowa. It was introduced there by Dutch immigrants who settled in the area in 1845, bringing with them their culinary heritage and festive customs. Since then, Dutch Letters have become a beloved staple, enjoyed during all sorts of different occasions and festivities throughout the region. What was once a European holiday treat has blossomed into a common delicacy in Iowa, so much so that these distinctive almond-filled pastries can now be readily found not only in traditional bakeries but also in surprising places like local gas stations, convenient stores, and countless other establishments. Their widespread availability speaks volumes about how deeply ingrained they have become in the local culinary landscape, a testament to their enduring appeal and delicious flavor profile. Pella, Iowa, truly serves as a cultural hub where these delectable treats continue to thrive and delight generations.
The “S” Shape Mystery: Why Dutch Letters Always Begin with S
You might often observe that Dutch Letter pastries, particularly those found in commercial bakeries, are predominantly shaped in the letter “S.” This consistent shaping isn’t a random choice but rather holds a significant cultural and historical reason. The primary reason for this common “S” shape is its direct association with the aforementioned winter-themed holiday in the Netherlands, Sinterklaasavond. “S” stands for Sinterklaas, the Dutch equivalent of Saint Nicholas, who is the central figure of this gift-giving celebration. During Sinterklaasavond, these pastries, often personalized, are distributed, and the “S” shape serves as a widely recognized symbol of the holiday itself. It’s a delicious edible homage to the patron saint of children and generosity, making the pastry even more special during the festive season. While families might create letters representing their own surnames, the universal “S” ensures widespread recognition and celebration.
Essential Elements: Ingredients for Dutch Letter Bars
Crafting these irresistible Dutch Letter Bars requires a precise combination of readily available ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that signature buttery, almond-rich flavor and delicate texture. For a comprehensive list of all ingredients and detailed instructions, please scroll down to the bottom of this post where you’ll find the full printable recipe card. However, let’s highlight the key components that bring these bars to life:
- Butter: This is a fundamental ingredient, providing the rich, tender, and undeniably buttery base that makes these dessert bars so deliciously flaky. Using high-quality unsalted butter is recommended for best flavor control.
- Sugar: A blend of both raw sugar (for a subtle crunch and caramelized flavor on top) and regular granulated sugar (for sweetness and structure within the bar) is used to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
- Eggs: Large eggs are essential binders, helping to emulsify the ingredients and contribute to the moist, tender crumb of the bars. They also aid in the browning process, giving the bars a beautiful golden hue.
- Almond paste: Arguably the most important and defining ingredient, almond paste is what gives Dutch Letter Bars their distinct, authentic flavor. It’s a rich, dense mixture made from finely ground almonds and sugar, often cooked with a small amount of cream and a binder. You’ll typically find it in the baking aisle of your supermarket, near the extracts and nuts, often packaged in a convenient tube or block. Do not confuse it with marzipan, which is sweeter and has a different consistency. Ensure you purchase true almond paste for the best results.
- Flour: Standard all-purpose flour provides the structural foundation for these bars, creating a tender, yet firm, base that perfectly cradles the almond filling. Make sure to measure it correctly, either by weight or by spooning it lightly into a measuring cup and leveling it off.
- Almond extract: To intensify and brighten the almond flavor, a good quality almond extract is vital. If possible, opt for pure almond extract; its superior flavor truly makes a significant difference in the overall taste profile of these bars, elevating the natural almond paste.
- Almonds: While optional, slivered almonds are highly recommended for sprinkling on top of the bars. They add a delightful textural contrast and an extra layer of nutty flavor, complementing the almond paste beautifully. However, if you prefer a smoother top or have dietary restrictions, they can be omitted. I’ve personally enjoyed making them both with and without the slivered almonds.
Mastering the Bake: How to Make Dutch Letter Bars
Creating these delightful Dutch Letter Bars is a straightforward process that yields incredibly rewarding results. Follow these simple steps to bring a taste of Dutch tradition into your kitchen:
First, begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). While the oven comes to temperature, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and generously butter its interior. This crucial step ensures that your delicious bars won’t stick and can be easily removed once baked and cooled. Set the prepared dish aside.
In a large mixing bowl, or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and eggs. Cream these ingredients together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined. This aeration process is key to achieving a tender crumb. Next, add the almond paste, breaking it into small chunks to help it incorporate more easily. Continue mixing until the almond paste is fully blended into the creamy base, ensuring no large lumps remain. Finally, stir in the almond extract and then gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough bars.
Carefully transfer the rich, almond-infused batter into your previously prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Using a spatula, spread the batter evenly across the bottom of the dish, ensuring it forms a smooth, consistent layer. For an extra touch of flavor and texture, sprinkle the top generously with either raw sugar for a delightful crunch or slivered almonds for added nutty goodness, or even both! This optional topping adds a beautiful golden finish and a pleasant textural contrast to the soft interior.
Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 to 24 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; the bars are ready when the edges are lightly golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. Avoid over-baking to maintain their signature soft and gooey texture. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Cooling is essential for clean cuts and for the flavors to fully develop.
Share the Sweetness: Pin This Recipe!
Don’t let this incredible recipe for easy Dutch Letter Bars disappear into the digital abyss! If you love the idea of creating these buttery, almond-rich treats, be sure to save it. Pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board now so you can easily find it whenever a craving for Dutch-inspired deliciousness strikes. Sharing is caring, and your friends and followers will thank you for introducing them to this delightful dessert!
Pro Tips for Perfect Dutch Letter Bars
- Avoid Over-Baking: This is paramount for achieving the ideal texture. Keep a vigilant eye on your Dutch almond paste bars as they bake. Remove them from the oven just as the tops begin to turn a beautiful golden brown and the center appears set. Over-baking can lead to dry, crumbly bars, detracting from their signature moist and gooey consistency. They will continue to set slightly as they cool.
- Proper Storage: To maintain their freshness and delicious flavor, store any leftover Dutch Letter Bars in an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator, where they will remain fresh and delightful for up to one week. This makes them excellent for meal prepping desserts or enjoying throughout the week.
- The Almond Paste is Key: I cannot stress this enough – make absolutely sure you have genuine almond paste for this recipe! Almond paste is not just an ingredient; it is the essential ingredient that defines the unique flavor and texture of these bars. Do not substitute it with almond flour, almond butter, or marzipan (which is much sweeter and has a different texture).
- Sourcing Almond Paste: If you’re wondering where to find this crucial component, you have a few options. You can easily find almond paste online through various retailers, at specialty baker’s stores, or most commonly, in the baking aisle of your local supermarket, often located near the extracts, nuts, or specialty baking items. It usually comes in a small tube or a block. Alternatively, for the ambitious baker, you can even make almond paste from scratch, which can be a rewarding process.
Explore More Sweet Treats: Other Recipes You’ll Love
If these Dutch Letter Bars have awakened your passion for baking delightful treats, you’re in luck! My website features extensive sections dedicated to a variety of donuts and pastries, as well as a dedicated collection of incredible bar recipes. Here are some of my personal favorites that I believe you’ll absolutely adore:
For bar enthusiasts, these Glazed Lemon Bars are a perennial family favorite, bursting with zesty citrus flavor. You’ll also fall in love with my Iced Snickerdoodle Bars, which bring a classic cookie flavor into an easy-to-eat bar form, and the delightful layers of my Cranberry Magic Bars, a perfect blend of sweet and tart. And for a taste of autumn any time of year, don’t miss my comforting Apple Pie Bars. If pastries are more your style, you absolutely must try the recipe for Polish Donuts (Pączki), famously pictured above, or indulge in my comforting Homemade Blueberry Toaster Strudel. And for another traditional European delicacy, I highly recommend this fantastic Nut Rolls Recipe. Each of these recipes promises a delightful baking adventure!
With all this delicious anticipation, I truly believe it’s high time we gather our ingredients and bake up some of these irresistible Dutch Letter Bars, don’t you? Their ease, rich almond flavor, and buttery flakiness make them an absolute joy to create and an even greater pleasure to devour. Let’s embark on this delightful baking journey together and get straight to the recipe!
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Print Recipe
Dutch Letter Bars
A Dutch letter bar is a simplified version of a Dutch Letter pastry. Rich in almond flavor, buttery and flaky, these bars will have any pastry lover swooning in no time.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 24 mins
Total Time: 29 mins
Course: Bars
Cuisine: American
Keyword: almond bars, best, Dutch Letter Bars, Dutch Letters, easy, Pella Iowa, recipe
Servings: 15 bars
Calories: 310 kcal
Author: Michaela Kenkel
Equipment
- Rubber Spatulas
- Glass Batter Bowl
- 9×13 Pyrex Baking Dish with a Lid
- Kitchenaid Stand Mixer
- KitchenAid Hand Mixer
Ingredients
- 2 sticks (1 cup) butter
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 7 ounces almond paste (broken into pieces)
- 1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 Tablespoon almond extract
- raw sugar (optional)
- slivered almonds (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9×13″ baking dish, set aside.
- In your mixer cream together butter, sugar and egg until fluffy.
- Add in almond paste in small chunks while the mixer runs until it’s all incorporated.
- Add in almond extract and flour and beat until combined.
- Spread into a prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top with raw sugar or slivered almonds, if desired.
- Bake for 20-24 minutes. Or until the top of the bars is golden brown and bars are set in the middle.
- Cool and slice.
Notes
Store leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to one week. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 310kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.5g | Cholesterol: 54mg | Sodium: 107mg | Potassium: 71mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 25g | Vitamin A: 408IU | Vitamin C: 0.01mg | Calcium: 32mg | Iron: 1mg
This delightful recipe was initially published on April 19, 2021. It has since been meticulously updated and enhanced to significantly improve the user experience, incorporate fresh insights, and provide even more value, and was proudly reshared on June 17, 2025. We continuously strive to bring you the best!
