1-Heating and Mixing the Syrup: First, heat the honey, dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat until the butter melts and the sugars dissolve. Let this mixture cool for 15 minutes so it’s easier to work with. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and ginger to combine the dry ingredients.

2-Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients: Once cooled, add the egg, orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, sliced unblanched almonds, and finely chopped candied orange peel to the syrup mixture, and stir until everything blends. Gradually mix in the flour mixture to form a sticky dough, then cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight. This rest time is key as it enhances the flavors and makes the bars chewier.

3-Baking and Glazing: When you’re ready, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter and flour a 9-inch square baking pan. Let the dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then spread it evenly in the pan. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. While it’s baking, mix the glaze ingredients until smooth. After baking, cool the bars on a wire rack, spread the glaze over them while warm, and let them cool completely before cutting. If you’re into other bar recipes, check out our caramel apple cheesecake bars for more ideas.