Almond Raspberry Fingers

🍰 Almond Raspberry Fingers 🥄

Almond Raspberry Fingers are a delightful dessert treat that combines the nutty goodness of almonds with the sweet and tart flavors of raspberries. These finger-shaped bars are perfect for any occasion and are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Here’s everything you need to know about them:

📜 History:
The exact origin of Almond Raspberry Fingers is a bit elusive, but they are part of the broader tradition of almond-based desserts that have been enjoyed in various forms for centuries. Almonds have a long history of cultivation in the Mediterranean region and have been used in sweets for their rich and nutty flavor. The addition of raspberries likely came later, as they became more widely cultivated in Europe. This combination of flavors and textures has become a beloved classic in many dessert cuisines.

🥘 Components:
To make Almond Raspberry Fingers, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup of almonds (blanched and finely ground)
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon of almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 cup of raspberry jam
• Sliced almonds for decoration
• Powdered sugar for dusting

👩‍🍳 Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy.
   • Add the almond extract and mix it in.
   • Gradually add the ground almonds, all-purpose flour, and salt. Mix until a crumbly dough forms.

2. Assemble the Bars:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
   • Press about two-thirds of the dough mixture into the bottom of the pan to form the base.

3. Add the Raspberry Filling:

   • Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the dough base.

4. Create the Top Layer:

   • Take the remaining dough and crumble it evenly over the raspberry jam layer.
   • You can also add some sliced almonds on top for extra texture and visual appeal.

5. Bake:

   • Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

6. Cool and Serve:

   • Allow the Almond Raspberry Fingers to cool completely in the pan.
   • Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar.
   • Carefully lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper, and then cut them into finger-sized pieces.

⏱️ Preparation Time:
The total time needed to prepare Almond Raspberry Fingers is approximately 45-50 minutes, including both preparation and baking time.

Enjoy these delightful Almond Raspberry Fingers as a sweet treat with a hot cup of tea or coffee, or serve them as a dessert at your next gathering. 🍰🍇🥄

Certainly! Here are some nutrition facts and health information for Almond Raspberry Fingers:

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate values):

• Calories: 150-200 calories per finger (depending on serving size)
• Total Fat: 9-11 grams
• Saturated Fat: 3-4 grams
• Trans Fat: 0 grams
• Cholesterol: 10-15 mg
• Sodium: 50-70 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 16-20 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
• Sugars: 8-10 grams
• Protein: 2-3 grams
• Vitamin C: 1-2% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Calcium: 1-2% DV
• Iron: 2-3% DV

Note: Nutrition values may vary based on the specific ingredients and serving size used.

Health Information:

1. Almonds: Almonds are a good source of healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which can support heart health. They also provide vitamin E, magnesium, and fiber.

2. Raspberries: Raspberries are rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants, especially vitamin C and various phytonutrients. They can contribute to better immune health and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

3. Portion Control: While Almond Raspberry Fingers can be a delicious treat, it’s important to enjoy them in moderation due to their sugar and calorie content. Overindulging may lead to excess sugar and calorie intake.

4. Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Making these bars at home allows you to control the ingredients and portion size, which can make them a healthier option compared to some store-bought desserts with added preservatives and artificial ingredients.

5. Allergies: Be mindful of nut allergies when preparing or serving Almond Raspberry Fingers, as they contain almonds. If allergies are a concern, you can consider nut-free alternatives.

6. Balanced Diet: These dessert bars can be a part of a balanced diet when enjoyed occasionally. Pairing them with fresh fruits or a small serving of yogurt can add nutritional value to your dessert.

Remember that the nutritional information provided here is approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used in your recipe. It’s always a good practice to check product labels and consult with a nutritionist for precise dietary information tailored to your needs.