Irresistibly Sweet Traditional Thumb Bars Bursting with Flavor
Traditional Thumb Bars are buttery shortbread bars filled with sweet jam that bring nostalgic comfort and versatility.
Equipment
- 8x8-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Parchment Paper
- Spatula
Ingredients
For the Crust and Topping
- 1 cup Unsalted Butter softened
- 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1/2 teaspoon Almond Extract optional
- 1 large Egg
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
For the Jam Filling
- 1 cup Thick Fruit Preserves or Jam raspberry, apricot, or mixed berry
Instructions
Baking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Cream softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in vanilla extract and, if desired, almond extract along with the large egg. Beat until well combined.
- Combine flour and salt into the butter mixture, mixing gradually until a soft dough forms.
- Press about ⅔ of the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.
- Spread your choice of thick fruit jam over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the jam in small pieces.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is lightly golden brown.
- Cool completely before carefully lifting out of the pan. Cut into squares.
Notes
Optional: Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 7 days.