Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup butter, softened
2 eggs
2 teaspoons orange rind, grated
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups peeled apples, chopped
1 cup cranberries ( fresh or frozen, coarsely chopped)
1 cup chopped nuts
1/3 cup butter, softened
3 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon orange rind, grated
2 teaspoons milk, to 4 teaspoons
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 F; grease a 15 x 10 x 1-inch jelly roll pan.
In a large mixer bowl, combine the sugar, butter, eggs, orange peel and vanilla extract.
Beat on medium speed, scraping the bowl often, for 2 to 3 minutes until well mixed.
Reduce the speed to low; add the flour, baking soda and salt.
Continue beating, scraping the bowl often, for 1 to 2 minutes until well mixed.
By hand, stir in the apples, cranberries and nuts.
Spread in the prepared pan. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool completely.
In a small mixer bowl, combine the butter, cream cheese and vanilla extract.
Beat on medium speed, scraping the bowl often, for 1 to 2 minutes until well mixed.
Reduce the speed to low.
Continue beating, gradually adding the powdered sugar, orange peel and enough milk for desired spreading consistency.
Thinly frost the cooled bars; cut into bars.
Servings: 24
Time preparation: 30 min.
Time total: 65 min.