CHERRY BARS FOR A CROWD
For the Bars:
1 1/2 cups butter, softened
3 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 teaspoon salt
5 large eggs
1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
2 cans (21 oz.) cherry pie filling
For the Glaze:
1 cup confectioner’s sugar
3 tablespoons milk
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a jelly roll pan (12×17) with aluminum foil. Spray with nonstick spray. Set aside.
In the bowl of your stand mixer, cream together butter and sugar, about 1-2 minutes. Add salt, eggs, and vanilla and almond flavorings and continue stirring until fully incorporated. Add flour and baking powder and mix until just combined. Reserve 1 3/4 cup of dough. Spread/Press remaining dough into the prepared baking pan. Top with cherry pie filling. Drop remaining batter in small pieces over the cherry filling.
Place in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and place pan on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled prepare the glaze. Whisk together confectioners’ sugar and milk until smooth and drizzle over the bars. Cut into 35 squares and serve.