Back to Recipes

The Bar Cookies

I found this recipe published in a 1951 cookbook, from The Union Congregational Church in York Beach, Maine. Mrs. Sylvia Wares Ellis, the wife of Harley Ellis contributed the recipe. Harley, my dad’s uncle was one of six sons born to by our Great Grandparents Marietta and Frank Ellis.

Description

Harley Gilman Ellis (b.3/16/1891-d. 9/12/1951 Married 7/5/1917 Sylvia E. Ware (b.12/6/1891– d. They had 3 children; Robert, Edward and Lt. Richard (Richmond) Hazen. Richmond was killed in action on 3/18/1944 serving on The Scorpion during WWII. The entire vessel was reported missing. It is believed it crossed several mine lines at the entrance to the Yellow Sea.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup shortening

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

  • 3/4 cup brown sugar

  • 2 eggs

  • (yolk and whites separated)

  • 2 Tablespoon water

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

  • 2 cup flour, sifted

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

Directions
  • Cream the shortening and add the sugars, egg yolks, water and vanilla.
  • Then add the dry ingredients sifted together three times.
  • The dough will be quite stiff.
  • Spread the dough out in one large pan or two 8x12x1 inch pans.
  • Pour 1 package of chocolate bits over the dough.
  • Beat egg whites of 2 eggs stiff.
  • Fold in the other 2/3 cup of brown sugar.
  • Spread on top of the chocolate bits.
  • Bake in 375˚f oven for 25 minutes.
  • Allow to stand until almost cool, then cut in squares.
  • This makes 48 squares using the two tins.

Categories

DessertCookiesAmericanSpicyPastryHoliday