Hungarian Walnut Cake Bars (Diós Rácsos)

These beautiful Hungarian walnut bars are made with layers of tender pastry and a rich, sweet walnut filling. The classic lattice pattern on top gives them a traditional homemade look, while powdered sugar adds the perfect finishing touch.

They are wonderful with coffee or tea and make a lovely addition to a holiday dessert table.

Ingredients

For the pastry

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 egg yolks
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the walnut filling

• 2 cups finely ground walnuts
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 egg white

For finishing

• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon milk
• Powdered sugar, for dusting