Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 3/4 cup raspberry jam (or your favorite fruit jam)
For the topping:
- 3 large egg whites
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Heat to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Make the crust: In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Press & bake: Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges. Cool slightly.
- Add the jam layer: Spread raspberry jam evenly over the warm crust.
- Prepare the topping: In a clean bowl, beat egg whites until frothy. Gradually add brown sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until glossy peaks form. Stir in vanilla and chopped nuts.
- Top & bake: Spread the meringue mixture gently over the jam layer. Bake for 20–25 minutes more, or until the top is lightly browned and crisp.
- Cool & cut: Let bars cool completely before cutting into squares or rectangles. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Baking Tips
- Use high-quality butter for a rich, melt-in-your-mouth crust.
- Warm the jam slightly for easier spreading.
- Beat the meringue until stiff and glossy for best texture.
- To prevent sticking, line your pan with parchment and lift the whole slab out before cutting.
Variations
- Flavor twist: Try apricot, strawberry, or blackcurrant jam.
- Nut-free version: Skip the nuts and top with coconut flakes for extra sweetness.
- Chocolate drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the top for a gourmet touch.
- Mini Vienna Bites: Bake in mini muffin tins for elegant party treats.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Room temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate: Store for up to 1 week; serve at room temperature for best flavor.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different jam? Yes, apricot, cherry, or blackberry jam work beautifully — just choose something slightly tart.
What nuts work best? Pecans are traditional, but walnuts or almonds also taste great.
Can I double the recipe? Yes! Bake in two pans or one large sheet pan and increase the bake time slightly.
Do they stay crunchy? The meringue stays crisp for 1–2 days, then softens slightly — still delicious!
Conclusion
Nancy Reagan’s Vienna Bars are a slice of sweet history — buttery, nutty, and layered with jammy goodness. They’re elegant enough for special occasions but simple enough for everyday baking. One bite, and you’ll see why this recipe has been beloved for decades!
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