Date and Mixed Bars
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/4 cups butter – divided
1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
4 large eggs – lightly beaten
1 container (8-ounce) chopped dates
1 can (11.5-ounce) unsalted mixed nuts – chopped
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preheat oven to 350. Spray a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Using a pastry blender, cut in 3/4 cup butter until mixture evenly into prepared pan. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until lightly browned.
In a small bowl, place remaining 1/2 cup butter. Microwave on High for 30 seconds, or until melted.
In a large bowl, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, and eggs. Add melted butter, stirring to combine. Stir in dates, nuts, and vanilla. Pour mixture evenly over baked crust. Bake for 33 to 35 minutes, or until center is set. Cool completely before cutting into bars.
Source: “Paula Deen’s Holiday Baking 2008 pg 73”
Yield: 2 dozen