Blueberry Shortbread Bars

01Method

1. 1

   Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. 2

   Put the butter cubes into the freezer and leave them for 15 minutes.

3. 3

   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder, then add the five-spice powder and whisk again.

4. 4

   Using a pastry cutter, work the frozen butter into the flour mixture until the pieces are roughly pea-sized. Add the egg yolk and continue cutting in until evenly incorporated. Drizzle in the ice water and mix until the dough just holds together when pressed between your fingers.

5. 5

   Transfer about three-quarters of the crumb mixture into an ungreased 9×9-inch baking dish and press it down firmly with the back of a spoon. Distribute the blueberries evenly in a single layer, then scatter the remaining crumbly dough over the top.

6. 6

   Bake until the top is golden and the edges are crisp and browned, 30 to 35 minutes. Allow to cool completely before cutting and serving.