Ginger Cranberry Bars

Name: Ginger Cranberry Bars
Ingredients: 1 cup butter, softened; 1/2 cup sugar; 2 teaspoons almond extract, divided; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cans (16 ounces each) whole-berry cranberry sauce; 2 tablespoons chopped crystallized ginger; 3 egg whites; 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar; 1/2 cup sliced almonds

9 ingredients

4 steps

Ingredients

1 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 teaspoons almond extract, divided
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cans (16 ounces each) whole-berry cranberry sauce
2 tablespoons chopped crystallized ginger
3 egg whites
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
1/2 cup sliced almonds

Directions

1

In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in 1-1/2 teaspoons almond extract. Beat in flour until crumbly.
2

Press into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish. Bake at 350° for 25-28 minutes or until golden brown.
3

Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, heat cranberry sauce and ginger. In a small bowl, beat egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in confectioners' sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, and remaining extract on high until stiff glossy peaks form. Spread cranberry mixture over crust. Spread meringue over cranberry layer; sprinkle with almonds.
4

Increase heat to 400°. Bake for 14-15 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool completely before cutting. Refrigerate leftovers.