Candied Almond Cranberry Bark

This easy candy makes a great gift. Caramelizing the almonds brings out their nutty flavor and adds crunch.


Yield: 24 servings (1 1/2 pounds)



Ingredients:

Almonds
1 tablespoon Land O Lakes® Butter
1/2 cup slivered almonds
2 tablespoons sugar

Bark
16 ounces vanilla-flavored candy coating (almond bark)
1/2 cup orange-flavored dried cranberries*
1 tablespoon freshly grated orange zest


*Substitute any flavor sweetened dried cranberries




Directions:

Line 2 baking sheets with waxed paper; set aside.

Melt butter in 10-inch skillet over medium heat until sizzling; add almonds and sugar. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until sugar melts and almonds are golden brown (4 to 6 minutes). Quickly spread onto 1 prepared baking sheet. Cool completely; coarsely chop.

Melt candy coating in large microwave-safe bowl according to package directions. Stir in chopped candied almonds, cranberries and orange zest. Immediately pour onto remaining prepared baking sheet; spread to 1/4-inch thickness.

Refrigerate until firm (about 30 minutes). Cut or break into small pieces. Store in container with tight-fitting lid.





Recipe Tip:

Grated zest from 1 large orange yields approximately 1 tablespoon.