Pecan Fruitcake Squares Or Any Nut You Prefer

Every bite of these squares tempts with winning fruitcake flavors-candied fruit, brandy and crunchy nuts. This is from chatelaine.com.

Place raisins and rum , in a small microwaveable bowl.

Microwave , uncovered , on high for 1 minute to warm raisins so they will soak up brandy.

Stir , then set aside.

Preheat oven to 350f.

In a large mixing bowl , using electric mixer or spoon , beat butter with sugar until creamy.

Beat in vanilla.

In another bowl , use a fork to blend 2 1 / 4 cups flour with salt.

Gradually stir into butter mixture press into ungreased 10x15-inch jelly roll pan.

Bake in center of oven until lightly golden , about 10 minutes.

Meanwhile , whisk eggs in a large bowl.

Add corn syrup , brown sugar , and the last 2 tablespoons of flour.

Stir until mixed.

Stir in raisins and any remaining brandy , nuts and candied fruit.

Spread over partially baked warm crust , evenly distributing nuts and fruit.

Bake in center of oven until it starts to set in the middle , from 20-25 minutes.

I find 20-22 minutes is usually enough.

Set pan on rack to cool , then cut into bars.

Store in a covered containe.

raisins, rum, unsalted butter, sugar, vanilla, flour, salt, eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, pecan halves, candied fruit