Tutti frutti bars

Here’s a recipe for colorful and delicious Tutti Frutti Bars:

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup tutti frutti (candied mixed fruit)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, like walnuts or pecans)
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup tutti frutti (for sprinkling on top)
• 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Make the Crust:
   • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
   • Add the flour and salt, and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
   • Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
   • Bake the crust for about 15-18 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
   • Stir in the tutti frutti, chopped nuts (if using), and shredded coconut (if using).
4. Assemble the Bars:
   • Pour the filling mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
   • Sprinkle the remaining tutti frutti and chopped nuts on top of the filling.
5. Bake:
   • Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden on top.
6. Cool and Slice:
   • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares or rectangles.
7. Serve:
   • These bars can be served as is or chilled for a firmer texture.

Tutti Frutti Bars are a delightful treat with their buttery crust, creamy filling, and colorful fruit topping. Perfect for parties or a sweet snack!