Dates-Under-a-Cloud Bars

Directions

1. Place egg whites in a small bowl; let stand at room temperature 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°.
2. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine dates, water and orange zest; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, until thickened, stirring occasionally. Cool slightly.
3. For crust, in a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg yolks and vanilla. In another bowl, whisk flour and baking powder; gradually beat into creamed mixture. Press onto bottom of a greased 13x9-in. baking pan. Spread date mixture over top.
4. With clean beaters, beat egg whites on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add brown sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high after each addition until sugar is dissolved. Continue beating until stiff peaks form. Spread over date mixture; sprinkle with almonds.
5. Bake 25-30 minutes or until top is golden brown. Cool completely on a wire rack.