Cranberry Almond Squares

Yield: 16 squares

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons almond meal (finely ground almonds)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, coarsely chopped
• 1/2 cup silvered almonds, divided
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for topping

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease an 8 inch square baking pan.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, almond meal, baking powder and salt.
3. In a medium bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Add flour mixture and mix on low speed until just combined.
6. Mix in chopped cranberries and 6 tablespoons slivered almonds. Dough should have a cookie dough-like consistency.
7. Spread dough into prepared pan using a spatula to push into the corners.
8. Sprinkle remaining 2 tablespoons slivered almonds on top of dough, then sprinkle with coarse sugar.
9. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until top is lightly browned.
10. Cool completely before slicing.