Name: Pecan or Angel Slices
Yield: Twelve 2 3/4 x 2 1/3-inch bars
Ingredients: 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 3 large eggs, divided; 1 3/4 teaspoons vanilla, divided; 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, plus additional 1 1/2 tablespoons; 1 cup packed light brown sugar; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups chopped toasted, pecans or walnuts; 1 cup flaked or shredded sweetened coconut, lightly toasted; 1 1/4 cups confectioners' sugar, sifted; 1/4 cup fresh lemon, orange, or lime juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla

Pecan or Angel SlicesCookbook cover image courtesy of Random House

Many a copy of JOY has been sold on the strength of this recipe. One fan says her family is sure these are the cakes St. Peter gives little children at the Gates of Heaven, to get them over the first pangs of homesickness.

The lemon glaze should be spread on warm cakes or Christmas cookies. It has a fine consistency for embedding decorative nuts and fruits.

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