Cherry Pecan Diamonds
MAKES ABOUT 50
These crunchy, chewy bars will be a sweet addition to any dessert spread.
1¼ cups granulated sugar, divided
¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1½ teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
½ teaspoon almond extract
1¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
1 cup light corn syrup
½ cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1 large egg
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
3 cups coarsely chopped pecans
1 cup dried cherries
1. Preheat oven to 350°. Spray a 13x9-inch baking pan with baking spray with flour and line with parchment paper so it hangs over the two long sides.
2. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine ¾ cup granulated sugar, butter, ½ teaspoon vanilla, and almond extract. Beat at medium speed until pale and creamy, 2 to 3 minutes. With the mixer on a low speed, gradually add flour and ½ teaspoon salt, and beat at low speed until just combined and a dough forms. Press dough into prepared pan in an even layer.
3. Bake until golden, 20 to 23 minutes.
