Go Back
Print

Rustic Nut Shortbread Bars

A buttery shortbread crust is topped with a mix of nuts and honey.
Course Dessert - bar cookie
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 3 dozen bars
Author Sarah @ The Gold Lining Girl

Ingredients

For crust:

  • 3/4 c. unsalted butter cold
  • 2 1/4 c. flour
  • 1/2 c. sugar
  • 1/2 tsp. baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1 egg lightly beaten

For topping:

  • 3/4 c. honey
  • 1/2 c. packed brown sugar
  • 6 tbsp. butter
  • 1 c. chopped pecans
  • 1 c. sliced almonds
  • 1 c. salted cashews
  • 1 c. salted pistachios

Instructions

For crust:

  • Line a 9x13 pan with aluminum foil, and spray generously with non-stick cooking spray.
  • In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  • Grate the cold butter into the flour mixture, and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Stir in egg until just blended.
  • Press mixture firmly into prepared pan.
  • Bake at 375 degrees for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
  • Cool on a wire rack while preparing the topping.

For topping:

  • Spread nuts out on a large baking sheet. While oven is still heated to 375 degrees, lightly toast the nuts for 3-5 minutes. Set aside.
  • In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey and brown sugar.
  • Stir occasionally until sugar is dissolved and mixture comes to a boil.
  • Boil for 2 minutes without stirring.
  • Add butter, bring to a boil, and cook for 1 additional minute.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the nuts.
  • Spread evenly over crust.
  • Bake at 375 degrees for 15-18 minutes, or until topping is bubbly at the edges.
  • Cool completely on a wire rack.
  • Run a knife around any edges. Using the foil, carefully lift the bars out of the pan.
  • Cut into bars, and discard any foil. Enjoy!