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Hanky Pankys

Hanky Pankys
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Hanky Pankys are irresistibly crispy and gooey nut-topped dessert bars featuring a buttery shortbread crust and a sweet, sticky topping. Simple pantry staples come together to create a treat with perfect texture and rich, comforting flavors that are perfect for snacks, desserts, or gifts. Customizable with various nuts, sweeteners, and spices, this homemade recipe is easy to follow and loved by all skill levels.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend/almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Topping

  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup (240ml) light corn syrup or honey (maple syrup optional)
  • 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or alternative such as toasted coconut flakes or seeds for nut-free)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the room temperature butter, flour, and salt. Use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press the dough evenly into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan to form a firm base. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to help it hold together during baking.
  2. Bake the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled crust for about 15 minutes or until it turns a light golden color. This partially bakes the crust to create a slight crispness, preparing it for the topping.
  3. Prepare the Topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with sugar and corn syrup (or honey), stirring until the mixture is smooth and lightly bubbling. Remove from heat, then stir in vanilla extract and chopped nuts until evenly combined.
  4. Assemble and Bake: Pour the nutty topping over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and golden brown. Keep a close eye in the final minutes to prevent burning.
  5. Slice and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares or rectangles. Serve immediately or store for later enjoyment.

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter for easier blending and a tender crust.
  • Chop nuts uniformly for consistent texture and distribution throughout the bars.
  • Don’t skip chilling the crust; it helps prevent shrinking and crumbling during baking.
  • Watch the topping closely in the last minutes of baking to avoid burning.
  • Cool bars completely before slicing to achieve clean edges and let flavors meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: Hanky Pankys, nut bars, dessert bars, shortbread crust, sweet topping, homemade treat, gluten free option, nut bars recipe

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/hanky-pankys/