Cran-Raspberry Butter Bars

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. 2
   CRUST: Place almonds and confectioners sugar in food processor or blender and process until nuts are finely chopped; set aside.
3. 3
   Cream butter in small mixer bowl.
4. 4
   Add sugar; mix until light and fluffy.
5. 5
   Stir in nut mixture and flour.
6. 6
   Pat dough evenly into greased 8-inch square pan; prick with fork.
7. 7
   Bake 30-35 minutes, or until edges are light brown and top is still pale.
8. 8
   TOPPING: Combine egg yolks and sugar in medium-size heavy saucepan.
9. 9
   Stir in juice concentrate, butter and salt.
10. 10
    Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wire whisk, 6-8 minutes (do not boil).
11. 11
    When mixture reaches 180° to 185° F on a candy thermometer, remove from heat.
12. 12
    Stir in food coloring if using, and spread mixture over baked crust.
13. 13
    Return to oven and bake for 5 minutes.
14. 14
    Remove from oven and cool completely in pan on a wire rack.
15. 15
    Cut into bars or diamonds to serve.