Cranberry Macadamia Bars
Submitted by cwalde on January 06, 2005 at 4:02 pm

These bars make a delightful addition to your Christmas party trays. Just make sure that they are either frozen or completely chilled before you try to cut them. I loved them. Cheryl

Crust:
2/3 c AP flour
1/3 c butter, cut into pieces
2 T white sugar

Filling
1/2 c flaked coconut
1/2 c coarsely chopped macadamia nuts
1/2 c dried cranberries
1/3 c white sugar
2 eggs, beaten
1 t vanilla
1/2 t baking powder
1/4 t salt

Glaze
1 c confectioners' sugar
1 t grated orange peel
2 T orange juice

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Combine all crust ingredients in small mixer bowl. Beat at low speed, scraping bowl often till mixture is crumbly (1-2 minutes) Press into ungreased 8 inch square baking pan. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes or till lightly browned. (I baked mine for 19 1/2 minutes.)

Meanwhile, combine all filling ingredients in medium bowl; mix well.

Carefully spread filling over hot, partially baked crust. Bake for 22 to 27 minutes or until golden brown.

Meanwhile, combine powdered sugar, orange peel and orange juice. Stir until well mixed (add additional orange juice if necessary for desired glazing consistency). I didn't add more juice as I thought it was prefect. Drizzle glaze over warm bars. Cool completely. These bars cut better after a full chilling or freezing in the freezer.