Nancy Reagan's Vienna Chocolate Bars
Although not a Southerner herself, Nancy Reagan was inspired by incredible Southern baking. Following a visit to the Neshoba County Fair (billed as Mississippi's Giant Houseparty) during Ronald Reagan's 1980 bid for the presidency, Nancy shared this indulgent recipe, which we adapted from the Giant Houseparty Cookbook by The Philadelphia-Neshoba County Chamber of Commerce. Layers of pure goodness make up these Vienna Chocolate Bars. First, buttery shortbread is baked in a jelly roll pan. Then, fresh raspberry preserves are spread over the crust, followed with a sprinkling of chocolate morsels. Finally, a fluffy meringue filled with finely chopped pecans is spread over the layer of chocolate morsels and baked until beautifully browned. Since this recipe is made in a jelly roll pan and cut into bars, it can feed a crowd (of at least three dozen, to be exact). Whether for a dinner party, holiday gathering, or luncheon, these fruity chocolate bars will be a hit. Plus, they make wonderful food gifts to bring neighbors, teachers, or hostesses. Thank you for the amazing recipe, Nancy!