An epoxy adhesive composition of an epoxy resin and an amine hardener includes a synergistic accelerator of an effective amount of short chain polyol and an effective amount of a dihydric phenol having between about 6 and about 24 carbon atoms. Surfaces of adherends are joined with the dried residue of the epoxy adhesive composition by applying the epoxy resin composition to one or both surfaces, joining the surfaces, and applying pressure, optionally with heating. The joined adherends having the dried epoxy resin composition is another disclosed embodiment.