Cherry Pie Bars

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of softened unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups of cherry pie filling
• 1 teaspoon of almond extract
• 1 cup of powdered sugar (for the glaze)
• 1-2 tablespoons of milk (for the glaze)
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract (for the glaze)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, blend together the flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt until the mixture resembles crumbs.
3. Set aside 1 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture for the topping.
4. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the crust.
5. Bake the crust for 12-15 minutes or until it turns lightly golden.
6. Meanwhile, in another bowl, combine the cherry pie filling with almond extract, ensuring it’s evenly mixed.
7. Spread the cherry mixture evenly over the baked crust.
8. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the cherry layer.
9. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the topping achieves a golden brown hue.
10. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
11. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth to create the glaze.
12. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
13. Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy!