Quince Paste Shortbread Bars : Easy Homemade Treat

French

Enjoy these irresistible quince paste shortbread bars, a simple autumn delight that’s perfect for teatime, gifting, or a cozy snack.

Membrillo Shortbread Bars Recipe

We all fell for these quince paste shortbread bars, a true autumn treat that highlights the flavor of freshly picked quinces from the garden.

This year, my harvest was plentiful, so I took the opportunity to make a generous batch of quince jam and quince paste to share.

What I love about this recipe is the perfect balance between the delicately crumbly shortbread base and the soft, subtly tangy quince topping.

It’s the kind of simple treat that turns a coffee break into a warm, cozy moment or steals the show at snack time.

With just a few basic ingredients and a bit of patience, you end up with a crowd-pleasing result, perfect for gifting, or for keeping all to yourself. A true homemade delight!

Ingredients for Quince Paste Shortbread Bars

For the Shortbread Base

• 175 g plain flour : For a light, crumbly base that melts in your mouth.
• 125 g cold butter, diced : Using it cold ensures a tender, buttery shortbread.
• 40 g granulated sugar : Just enough for a subtle sweetness and a golden finish.

For the Quince Topping

• 250 g quince paste : Homemade is more fragrant, but store-bought works for convenience. It gives that soft, fruity layer.
• 20 ml water : Helps soften and smooth out the quince paste for easy spreading.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Quince Paste Shortbread Bars

1. Make the Shortbread Base

• Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
• Line a 20 cm (8-inch) square baking pan with parchment paper.
• In a food processor, combine flour, diced cold butter, and sugar. Pulse until the dough just comes together.
• Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan with the back of a spoon.
• Bake for 10 minutes, until lightly golden.

2. Prepare the Quince Layer

• Cut the quince paste into chunks.
• Place in a bowl with the water and blend with an immersion blender until smooth and spreadable.
• Remove the pan from the oven, then spread the quince mixture evenly over the shortbread base.
• Smooth the surface, then return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, watching so the top doesn’t get too dark.

3. Finishing & Cutting

• Let cool slightly, then lift out of the pan.
• While still a little warm, cut into 16 equal squares for clean edges and minimal sticking.
• Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container, separating layers with baking paper.

Tips for Perfect Shortbread Bars

• Use very cold butter: This creates the best crumbly texture.
• Press the dough evenly: Ensures even baking and a smooth base.
• Cut while warm: The quince layer cuts more cleanly before it fully sets.
• Homemade quince paste: For a more authentic, less sweet flavor.

Delicious Variations

• Add a little lemon zest to the dough for extra freshness.
• Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on the quince layer before the second bake.
• Try swapping quince paste for fig, date, or prune paste to change things up.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

– Freezing: Not ideal (it can change the texture), but if needed, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.

– Storage: Keep in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll stay fresh for 5-7 days at room temperature, or up to 10 days in the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions about Quince Paste Shortbread Bars

– Can I prepare the dough in advance? Yes! You can make it the day before and keep it wrapped in the fridge.

– Can I use store-bought quince paste? Definitely, just choose an artisanal one if possible or use a bit less sugar if it’s very sweet.

– Why does my shortbread crumble? Make sure the butter is cold and don’t overwork the dough to keep it light and crumbly.

– How do I get clean slices? Cut the bars when they’re still slightly warm, using a sharp knife.

– My quince paste turns pale and foamy when blended with water, why? That’s totally normal! Mixing adds air, which creates bubbles and a whitish look, but this disappears as it bakes, leaving a smooth, glossy topping.

Other Desserts to try

• mini lemon curd and blackberry tartlets
• Perfect vanilla creme brulee recipe
• Lemon Poppy Seed Shortbread Cookies
• Homemade Mince Pies Recipe