Helen Korn Pearce’s Golden Bars

2023 Baking Court of Honor Recipe.

Helen Korn Pearce is a lifelong Durham resident, was Vice Chairman of the Durham Fair Flower Committee and is a lifelong member of the Durham Fair Association. This year, the Baking Department decided to honor a Korn family’s favorite recipe by featuring Helen Korn Pearce’s mother’s delicious Golden Bars.

Helen’s mother, Myra Davis Korn (1890–1985), lived her entire life in Durham. When married to Francis E. Korn, he became Town Clerk and Myra was his assistant. Upon Francis’ death in 1957, Myra became Town Clerk. The office was in their home on Main Street. Myra managed the office along with juggling the needs of a growing family.

It was not unusual for an office patron to be treated to a warm Golden Bar!

Myra was very active in town affairs. When she was on a refreshment committee, chances are she would bake her delicious Golden Bars.

To this day her Golden Bar recipe continues to be used by her family and friends.

Golden Bars

Ingredients

2/3 cup shortening
2 cups brown sugar (packed)
2   eggs, beaten
1 tsp vanilla
¾ cup chopped nuts
1½ cups flour
2 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt

Directions

  1. Sift Together flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.
  2. Cream shortening and brown sugar together.
  3. Add remaining ingredients.
  4. Mix well.
  5. Spread in greased 9" × 13" pan and bake in a 350°F oven for 25–30 minutes.
  6. For competition: Submit 6 bars on a paper plate to include two corners, two edges and two middles.