Novelty Layer Squares

• 1/2 cup shortening
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 eggs, separated
• 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cup all purpose flour
• 1 tsp. baking powder
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup chopped pecans

Directions:

Cream shortening; gradually add 3/4 cup sugar, beating well at medium speed of an electric mixer. Add egg yolks and 1/2 tsp. vanilla; beat mixture well. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture, and mix well. Press mixture into a lightly greased 9x13 pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 8 minutes. Beat egg whites at high speed just until foamy. Gradually add brown sugar, and beat 2 minutes. Add 1/2 tsp. vanilla, mixing well. Spread mixture evenly over crust; sprinkle with pecans. Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes. Let cool 30 minutes and cut into squares. Remove from pan, and let cook completely on wire racks.

By Robin