Grandma Wanda's Chocolate Chip Bar

Ingredients

• 10 tbsp salted butter
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 cups light brown sugar, lightly packed
• ¼ cup strong coffee, cooled
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• 1 cup dried cherries
• 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup roasted and salted pistachios, shelled

Instructions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. 2
   Lightly butter a jelly roll pan (10.5 x 15.5inches), and line with parchment paper overhanging on each short edge by 3-4 inches, as a sling for removing.
3. 3
   In a small 8-10 inch skillet (preferably stainless steel), melt butter over medium-high heat until lightly browned and fragrantly nutty. Immediately transfer browned butter to a small, shallow bowl. Allow to cool.
4. 4
   In a small microwave-safe bowl, add the dried cherries with 2 tbsp of water. Microwave for one minute to rehydrate the cherries, then discard liquid.
5. 5
   In a large mixing bowl, add beaten eggs, brown sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to combine. Add cooled brown butter and coffee and continue to whisk.
6. 6
   Meanwhile, in a separate medium-size mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
7. 7
   Add dry ingredients to the wet in three parts, stirring with a rubber spatula to combine. Batter should be smooth and pourable.
8. 8
   Transfer batter to the jelly roll pan and smooth with the back of a spoon or offset spatula. Scatter chocolate chips, cherries, and pistachios evenly across the top. Optionally, lightly press some of the toppings into the batter using the back of a spatula.
9. 9
   Bake for 20-25 minutes. A skewer should come out clean when tested in the center.
10. 10
    Allow bar to cool 20-30 minutes before cutting. Enjoy!