Imagine biting into a dessert that perfectly balances the rich, nutty crunch of walnuts with the golden sweetness of honey, all topped with a delicate sprinkle of sea salt that makes your taste buds dance. These Salted Honey Walnut Bars are not just a treat; they're a culinary experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dessert that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this American-style dessert promises to be your new go-to crowd-pleaser that's impossibly easy to make and impossible to resist!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a crumbly dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a uniform base layer.
- Bake the base crust for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown and the surface looks set.
- While the base is baking, prepare the honey walnut topping by combining honey and chopped walnuts in a separate bowl, mixing thoroughly to coat the nuts.
- Remove the partially baked crust from the oven and immediately spread the honey-walnut mixture evenly across the surface.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, until the honey is bubbling and the walnuts are lightly toasted.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle sea salt evenly over the top of the bars while still hot.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire batch out of the pan.
- Cut into 12 even bars using a sharp knife. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted for the perfect crust texture.
- Use a stand mixer or electric hand mixer to cream butter and sugar for maximum fluffiness.
- Line your baking pan with parchment paper for effortless removal and clean cutting.
- Toast your walnuts slightly before mixing with honey for enhanced nutty flavor.
- Sprinkle sea salt immediately after baking while the bars are still hot to help the salt adhere.
- Allow bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, crisp edges.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.
- For extra indulgence, serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 45mg
