Chewy Fruit and Nut Squares

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 c. flour
• 1 tsp. baking powder
• 1/2 tsp. baking soda
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 c. light or dark raisins
• 1 c. chopped dried fruit (I used a combination of apricots, prunes, and apples)
• 3/4 c. chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1/2 c. unsalted butter at room temperature
• 1/2 c. sugar
• 1/2 c. light brown sugar, packed
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp. grated orange rind
• 1/4 c. orange juice
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add in the fruit and nuts.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugars. Add the egg, orange rind, orange juice, and vanilla and beat well. Add the flour mixture and blend well.
4. Spread batter into prepared pan.
5. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, until the edges are browned and a toothpick in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before cutting into squares.