Traditional Bakewell Slices

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Difficulty: Medium
Servings: 12 slices
Calories per serving: ~320 kcal

Description

A classic British treat, Bakewell slices combine a buttery shortcrust pastry, a layer of fruity jam, and a rich almond frangipane topping. Perfect with a cup of tea, these slices are a delightful balance of sweet, nutty, and tangy flavors.

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Ingredients

For the Shortcrust Pastry:

• 175g (1 ½ cups) all-purpose flour

• 75g (⅓ cup) cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 1 tbsp caster sugar

• 2-3 tbsp cold water

For the Filling:

• 4 tbsp raspberry jam (or strawberry jam)

• 125g (½ cup + 1 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened

• 125g (⅔ cup) caster sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 125g (1 ¼ cups) ground almonds

• ½ tsp almond extract (optional)

• 25g (¼ cup) flaked almonds (for topping)

For the Icing (Optional):

• 100g (¾ cup) powdered sugar

• 1-2 tbsp water

• ½ tsp almond extract

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan / 350°F / Gas Mark 4).

2. In a mixing bowl, rub the flour and cold butter together until it resembles breadcrumbs.

3. Stir in the sugar, then gradually add cold water until the dough comes together.

4. Roll out the pastry on a floured surface and line a 20cm x 20cm (8-inch) baking tin, trimming the edges.

5. Prick the base with a fork, then blind bake for 10 minutes (cover with parchment and baking beans). Remove the beans and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 2: Spread the Jam

1. Once the pastry is out of the oven, spread the raspberry jam evenly over the base.

Step 3: Make the Frangipane Topping

1. In a bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

2. Gradually add the eggs, mixing well after each addition.

3. Fold in the ground almonds and almond extract (if using).

4. Spread the frangipane mixture over the jam layer, then sprinkle with flaked almonds.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and firm to the touch.

2. Let it cool completely in the tin before slicing.

Step 5: Add Icing (Optional)

1. Mix powdered sugar, water, and almond extract to form a thick drizzle.

2. Drizzle over the cooled Bakewell slices before serving.

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Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

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Tips & Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour for the pastry.

• Vegan Option: Substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use flax eggs.

• Different Jams: Try blackberry or apricot jam for a twist.

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.

Enjoy your Traditional Bakewell Slices with a warm cuppa for the ultimate British treat! 🍰☕