Marmalade Meringue Bars

winkki's Note:

From "Christmas Cookies"...untested by me but sounds like a marmalade-lovers dream! :o)

• Total Time: 45 mins
• Prep Time: 25 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins

Ingredients:

Yield: 30 bars

• 6 tablespoons butter or 6 tablespoons margarine , softened
• ½ cup sugar , divided
• 2 eggs , separated
• 1 teaspoon grated orange rind
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup wheat germ , divided
• ½ cup finely chopped pecans , divided
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1⁄3; cup orange marmalade
• sifted powdered sugar (optional)

Directions:

1. Cream butter in medium mixing bowl.
2. Gradually add 1/4 c sugar; beat until light and fluffy.
3. Add egg yolks, orange rind, and vanilla; beat until well-blended.
4. In separate bowl, combine flour, 1/4 c wheat germ, 1/4 c pecans, and salt.
5. Add flour mixture to creamed mixture; combine well.
6. Press dough evenly into ungreased 8x8 baking dish, across bottom and up 1" on all sides to make a crust.
7. Bake at 350 for 12-15 min or until golden brown.
8. While dough is baking, prepare meringue: Beat egg whites (at room temp) until soft peaks form.
9. Gradually add remaining 1/4 c sugar (1 Tbsp at a time), beating until stiff peaks form.
10. Fold in remaining 1/4 c wheat germ and 1/4 c pecans; set aside.
11. Spread marmalade over warm crust; top with meringue.
12. Bake at 350 for 18-20 min or until golden brown.
13. Cool in pan on wire rack.
14. Sprinkle w/powdered sugar, if desired.
15. Cut into bars or squares.
16. Store in airtight container for up to 1 week.