Nigella Lawson's twist on Dutch pastries ignites festive dessert debate

In late 2024, Nigella Lawson introduced a unique festive dessert inspired by a traditional Dutch recipe. This creation, known as Banket Bars, draws on the Dutch custom of creating intricate almond pastries. Lawson's approach focuses on simplifying preparation and presentation, catering to those who prefer alternatives to common Christmas treats, such as mince pies. By making adjustments - specifically cutting the pastry into shorter lengths before baking - the bars resemble small sausage rolls, enhancing their visual appeal and allowing the almond paste to caramelize slightly at the ends. Lawson emphasized the importance of preparation timing for optimal results. Puff pastry should be thawed in the fridge overnight before assembly, which aligns well with preparing the almond paste filling in advance. The filling comprises finely ground blanched almonds mixed with caster sugar, lemon zest, rosewater, and egg, creating a rich almond paste that serves as the centerpiece of the bars. After preparation, the almond paste is enveloped in the puff pastry, creating logs that are then baked to golden perfection. Upon baking, the bars are enhanced further with an apricot glaze made from jam and lemon juice, topped with flaked almonds for added texture. Additionally, they're finished off with an icing glaze of icing sugar and lemon juice, offering a sweet balance. Lawson’s innovation in adapting the traditional recipe not only respects the original but modernizes it to appeal to a broader audience, particularly those averse to dried fruits typically found in holiday desserts. Ultimately, this adaptation represents a melding of culinary traditions, celebrating Dutch heritage while catering to contemporary tastes. Lawson invites home bakers to try their hand at creating these Banket Bars, emphasizing that the process is straightforward, making it an accessible addition to festive celebrations. By sharing this recipe, she encourages a spirit of experimentation in the kitchen, ensuring that dessert preparation remains enjoyable and gratifying.