Dutch Letter Bars are a delightful dessert inspired by the traditional Dutch Letter pastry, which is especially popular during the holiday season and features flaky pastry filled with sweet almond paste. These bars take all the beloved flavors of the classic treat and transform them into an easy-to-make, shareable dessert that’s perfect for parties, cookie trays, or casual family gatherings. Instead of shaping individual pastry letters, the almond filling is spread over a tender crust and topped with a buttery crumble, making the recipe much more approachable while still delivering that nostalgic almond flavor.
What makes Dutch Letter Bars so special is the rich almond paste filling. It’s sweet, nutty, and slightly chewy, creating a beautiful contrast with the soft crust and crisp topping. Almond extract enhances the flavor, giving the bars that unmistakable bakery-style taste. The crust acts as a sturdy base, while the crumb topping adds texture and a golden finish that looks just as good as it tastes. Every bite feels comforting and indulgent without being overly heavy.