Name: Nutty Eggnog Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Sugar; 2/3 cup Butter; 2 Eggs; 1 teaspoon Vanilla; 2 cups Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg; 1 cup Chopped Macadamia Nuts; 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 1/4 teaspoon Vanilla; 2 1/2 tablespoons Eggnog

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The moment the holidays start creeping in, I get this special craving for something sweet and festive, and that’s when I whip up my favorite treat: Nutty Eggnog Bars. They’re not just any bars; they’re rich, creamy, and packed with the warm flavors of nutmeg and a delightful crunch from macadamia nuts. Every bite takes me back to cozy evenings spent with family, laughter echoing around the kitchen while the aroma of freshly baked goodies fills the air. One of my fondest memories is baking these bars with my mom during our annual holiday baking marathon. We’d pull out the old recipes, share stories, and make our house smell heavenly.

As the winter chill sets in and the holiday spirit spreads, the thought of these Nutty Eggnog Bars brings joy. They are perfect for sharing at Christmas gatherings or enjoying as a sweet treat after dinner by the fireplace. The combination of creamy textures and the crunch of nuts makes these bars a standout dessert that everyone will love. So, whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply indulging yourself, you can’t go wrong with these scrumptious bars! Let’s make some memories together with the delightful Nutty Eggnog Bars.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
200 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
9 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon

Why This Nutty Eggnog Bars Stands Out

They’re a Holiday Tradition!

Every holiday season, baking becomes an annual ritual in my household. There’s something incredibly heartwarming about preparing Nutty Eggnog Bars with loved ones. The process itself is filled with laughter and joy as we measure, mix, and bake together. This recipe has been passed down through generations, ensuring that every bite carries with it a piece of our family history.

Rich and Creamy Flavor

The moment you take a bite, the creamy texture and the comforting flavors of eggnog and nutmeg wrap around your taste buds like a warm hug. The sweetness of the sugar and the richness of the butter complement the subtle spice of nutmeg perfectly. It’s a harmonious blend that embodies the spirit of the season.

Perfect for Sharing

These bars are not just a treat for yourself; they are ideal for sharing with friends and family. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an office party, the Nutty Eggnog Bars are sure to impress. They are easy to cut into squares or diamonds, making them perfect for serving on platters.

Easy to Make

One of the best parts about making Nutty Eggnog Bars is how simple they are to prepare! Even novice bakers will find this recipe approachable. It combines straightforward techniques and readily available ingredients. You can whip them up in no time, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities!

A Versatile Dessert

Not only are these bars delicious, but they are also incredibly versatile! You can experiment with different nuts or even add a sprinkle of chocolate to elevate the flavor profile. Each time you make them, you can customize them to suit your preferences or the occasion.

Celebrate Every Moment

Finally, baking Nutty Eggnog Bars is about celebrating moments, big or small. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a cozy night in, or just a way to treat yourself after a long day, these bars remind us to savor the sweetness in life.

Ingredient List for Nutty Eggnog Bars

Creating Nutty Eggnog Bars means bringing together a wonderful combination of ingredients that work harmoniously to create the perfect dessert. Each component adds its unique flair, contributing to the overall flavor and texture. You’ll find that the key players—sugar, butter, eggs, and flour—combine to create a rich base, while the macadamia nuts provide a delightful crunch that elevates every bite.

Sugar: 2 cups – The foundation of sweetness that balances all the flavors.
Butter: 2/3 cup – Adds richness and moisture to the bars.
Eggs: 2 – Essential for binding the ingredients and adding fluffiness.
Vanilla: 1 teaspoon – A touch of warmth and depth to enhance the overall flavor.
Flour: 2 cups – The base that holds everything together.
Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon – Ensures the bars rise and become light and airy.
Ground Nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon – Provides that distinct holiday flavor that pairs perfectly with eggnog.
Chopped Macadamia Nuts: 1 cup – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Powdered Sugar: 1 cup – Used for the glaze to add sweetness and a beautiful finish.
Vanilla: 1/4 teaspoon – A hint of flavor in the glaze.
Eggnog: 2 1/2 tablespoons – Infuses the glaze with rich, creamy flavor.

Putting Together Nutty Eggnog Bars

As we prepare to make these delightful Nutty Eggnog Bars, I can’t help but feel excited about the process! This is where the magic happens, and before you know it, you’ll have a delicious treat ready to share. Let’s dive into the steps that bring these bars to life.

First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven heats up, line a 13×9 inch pan with foil, ensuring that you spray the foil with cooking spray. This will help prevent the bars from sticking and make it easier for you to lift them out later.
Next, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and butter. Stir continuously until the butter is completely melted. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly. Cooling is crucial here, as you don’t want to scramble your eggs in the next step!
Once the mixture has cooled a bit, stir in the eggs and vanilla into the sugar and butter mix. Mix well until fully combined. You’ll want a smooth consistency that incorporates all the ingredients.
Now, it’s time to add the dry ingredients. Gradually add in the flour, baking powder, and ground nutmeg. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The mixture will be thick but should be fully incorporated.
Next, fold in the chopped macadamia nuts gently. This adds a wonderful texture and flavor to the bars. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Spread the dough evenly in your prepared pan. You might need to use your hands to help spread it out since the mixture is quite thick. Ensure it’s evenly laid out for even baking.
Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the edges start to pull away from the pan and the top is lightly browned. Keep an eye on them as every oven can vary!
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling step is vital; cutting into them while hot will result in a messy situation.
Once they’ve cooled, cut them into bars or diamond shapes. The cooled Nutty Eggnog Bars will hold their shape beautifully.
To create the glaze, in a small bowl, combine powdered sugar, vanilla, and 2 tablespoons of eggnog. If the mixture is too thick, add more eggnog a teaspoon at a time until you reach a piping consistency. Use a piping bag or a Ziploc bag with a snipped corner to drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars. Let it set before serving.

Things Worth Knowing

Cool Thoroughly: Make sure the bars are completely cooled in the pan before cutting. This helps maintain their shape and texture.
Experiment with Nuts: Feel free to swap macadamia nuts with your favorite nuts for different flavors and textures.
Check for Doneness: Since ovens vary, start checking the bars at the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Store Properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are always ways to adapt and put your unique spin on Nutty Eggnog Bars. Here are some ideas to consider:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these bars! Cut them into portions and wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They will keep for up to three months.
Pairing: Serve these bars with a hot cup of cocoa or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Flavor Variations: Try adding a touch of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a citrus twist!
Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs.
Top with Whipped Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Perfect Matches for Nutty Eggnog Bars

When it comes to serving Nutty Eggnog Bars, think about how they can complement your meal or occasion:

Holiday Parties: These bars are a fantastic addition to any holiday dessert table.
After Dinner Treat: Enjoy them as a sweet dessert following a festive meal.
Gift Ideas: Package them up nicely and give them as gifts during the holiday season.
Cozy Evenings: Perfect for enjoying with family while watching holiday movies.
Seasonal Gatherings: They make an excellent dessert for winter gatherings, from Christmas to New Year’s celebrations.
Pairing with Coffee: Serve these sweet bars alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a delightful pairing.

FAQ

Absolutely! Nutty Eggnog Bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just ensure to store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. The flavors often deepen and improve after a day, making them even more delicious when you serve them. This makes them perfect for holiday parties where you want to minimize last-minute work!

Leftover Nutty Eggnog Bars should be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you plan to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for additional freshness. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking!

Yes! These delightful bars freeze very well. Simply cut them into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them into a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the fridge overnight and enjoy!

Definitely! While macadamia nuts bring a unique flavor, feel free to swap them with your favorite nuts like walnuts or pecans. Just keep in mind that different nuts will add varying textures and tastes, so choose what you love best!

Conclusion

What makes Nutty Eggnog Bars special is their perfect combination of rich, creamy flavors and a delightful crunch, capturing the essence of holiday baking. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share them with your family and friends. You’ll find that they bring joy and sweetness to any gathering, making them a must-have for your holiday celebrations!