Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract, if using.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
4. Assemble the Bars
Spread about two-thirds of the dough evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a smooth base. Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the dough, spreading it to cover the surface. Drop small dollops of the remaining dough over the cherry filling, leaving some gaps to let the cherries peek through.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the dough is set. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
6. Prepare the Glaze
While the bars are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth glaze. Adjust the milk as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
7. Glaze and Slice
Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled bars. Once the glaze is set, slice the bars into squares or rectangles.
Tips for Success
- Use Quality Cherry Filling: For the best flavor, choose a high-quality cherry pie filling or make your own from fresh or frozen cherries.
- Customize the Flavor: Add a sprinkle of slivered almonds or white chocolate chips for an extra festive touch.
- Chill for Neater Slices: Refrigerate the bars for 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner edges.
- Store Properly: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
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