Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of the Middle East! These Sesame Cashew Bars from the legendary Sofra Bakery are not just a dessert – they're a sweet revelation that combines the rich, nutty crunch of cashews with the delicate, toasty essence of sesame seeds. Imagine a treat so addictively delicious that you'll want to make a batch every single week. Prepare to impress your friends, family, and your own taste buds with this simple yet extraordinary recipe that turns just a few ingredients into pure magic!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup cashews
- 1 cup sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare your baking equipment by lining a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Toast the cashews and sesame seeds separately in a dry skillet over medium heat until they become golden and fragrant. Cashews should be lightly golden, and sesame seeds should be light brown. Be careful not to burn them, stirring constantly.
- In a medium saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture starts to bubble and the sugar dissolves completely.
- Remove the honey mixture from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Add the toasted cashews and sesame seeds, mixing thoroughly to ensure all nuts and seeds are coated evenly.
- Quickly transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly and pressing down firmly with a spatula or the back of a spoon to create a compact layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center looks set but still slightly soft.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour. The bars will firm up as they cool.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the entire block out of the pan and place on a cutting board. Cut into 12 even bars using a sharp knife.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Tips
- Toasting is Key: Take your time when toasting cashews and sesame seeds. The golden color and fragrant aroma are crucial for developing deep, rich flavors. Watch them carefully and stir constantly to prevent burning.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe has few ingredients, use high-quality honey and fresh nuts to ensure the best possible taste.
- Press Firmly: When transferring the mixture to the pan, press down firmly and evenly. This helps create a compact, cohesive bar that holds together perfectly.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This helps them set and makes cutting much easier.
- Sharp Knife Technique: Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat, professional-looking bars.
- Storage Hack: If you want to keep these bars extra fresh, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week, separating layers with parchment paper.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 175kcal
Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
