Fireside Fruit Bars

From Hot Off the Griddle #34, December 1994.

METHOD

1. Sift together 2 cups sifted enriched all purpose flour, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg.
2. Cream 2/3 cup shortening.
3. Add gradually 1/2 cup sugar and cream until light and fluffy.
4. Blend in 1 tsp grated orange rind.
5. Combine 1/2 cup undiluted evaporated milk, 1/4 cup orange juice.
6. Add 2/3 cup chopped, mixed candied fruit, 1/4 cup chopped nuts.
7. Spread in greased and floured 15 × 10 inch shallow pan.
8. Bake in 350 degree oven 15 to 20 minutes.

Cool. Frost with orange frosting. Cut into bars with sharp knife.

ORANGE FROSTING

1. Combine 3 cups sifted icing sugar and 1/2 tsp grated orange rind.
2. Blend in 2 tbsp orange juice and 2 to 3 tbsp evaporated milk.
3. Beat until smooth.

Spread on cooled bars.