Cranberry Pretzel Cashew Bars

Cranberry Pretzel Cashew Bars (Adapted from Land O Lakes)

For the crust

1 1/2 cups finely crushed pretzels
3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg white, lightly beaten

For the filling

1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup coarsely chopped cashews, lightly toasted
10 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the topping

3 ounces chopped fine-quality white chocolate

To prepare the crust

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

In a medium bowl, whisk together pretzels and brown sugar. Add butter and mix until well combined - stir in egg white. Scoop the mixture into a 9" x 13" baking pan coated with nonstick spray - press down to form an even layer. Place into the oven and bake for 8 minutes.

To prepare the filling

Remove baking pan from the oven and sprinkle with cranberries and nuts.

In a medium saucepan, add butter and brown sugar - cook over medium heat, stirring, until the mixture comes to a boil. Continue to cook, stirring, for 1 additional minute. Evenly pour mixture over the top of the crust, dried fruit and nuts.

Place pan back into the oven - bake until the top is bubbly and golden, about 18 to 22 minutes. Remove and place pan on a wire rack to cool.

For the topping

In a small microwave-safe bowl, add white chocolate chunks - place into the microwave and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until the chunks are just melted and smooth. Drizzle over the top and let bars cool completely before cutting.

Makes about 24 bars.

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