Grandma’s Chocolate Chip Bars

Directions

1. In a large bowl, cream shortening and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolks, water and vanilla. Combine the flour, baking powder, salt and baking soda; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in chocolate chips.
2. Spread into a greased 13x9-in. baking pan. Bake at 350° for 15 minutes or until top is dry.
3. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, beat egg whites, vanilla and salt on medium speed until soft peaks form. Gradually beat in brown sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time on high until stiff peaks form.
4. Spread over warm crust to within 1 in. of edges. Sprinkle with walnuts. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack. Cut into bars.