Cranberry Crumble Bars

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting some overhang on the long sides. (The extra will help you lift the bars out.)
2. To prepare filling: Combine cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, 6 tablespoons granulated sugar, cornstarch, almond extract, and cinnamon in a small bowl; stir well. Set aside.
3. To prepare crust: Whisk all-purpose flour, almond flour, ½ cup granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and orange zest in a medium bowl. Work butter into the mixture, using your hands to pinch and rub until the pieces are flattened and the mixture is crumbly and resembles sand.
4. Lightly beat egg whites and vanilla in a small bowl with a fork. Pour into the flour mixture and use the fork to scoop down from the sides and up through the center until the whites are well incorporated. Set aside ½ cup of the mixture.
5. Press the remaining mixture into the prepared baking pan to form a bottom crust.
6. To assemble and bake: Give the cranberry mixture a quick stir, then pour it over the crust, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the reserved crust mixture on top.
7. Bake until the top is lightly browned, about 40 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and let the bars cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Lift the long sides of the parchment to remove and place on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut into 15 bars. Cool completely. Garnish with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.