BUTTERSCOTCH BARS

Think holidays...these are great "gifts from the kitchen". Biscocho Haus in Iloilo sells bars like these by the millions each year. Convert this recipe into a Food for the Gods by substituting cashew nuts with chopped walnuts and adding 1 cup chopped dates.

Ingredients:
2 sticks (1 cup) butter, softened
1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
1 tablespoon molasses
1 teaspoon brandy
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 cups all purpose (or bread) flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped cashew nuts

Preheat oven to 325 F. Spray with cooking oil spray a 7 x 11 or 8 x12 or 9 x 13 baking pan, line with aluminum foil and spray again with cooking oil spray. Set aside.

In a small bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt together. Set aside.
Cream butter, brown sugar, molasses, brandy and vanilla until well-mixed. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until well combined. Stir in flour mixture and fold in cashew nuts. Spread in the prepared pan and bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until top is firm and browned. Cool completely. Cut into bars or squares and wrap with cellophane.