Preparation Steps

• Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment, leaving overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease.
• Cream softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
• Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and almond extract until combined.
• Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix just until a soft dough forms.
• Spread about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
• Gently spread the cherry pie filling over the dough in an even layer.
• Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the cherries; it will not cover completely. Sprinkle with sliced almonds if using.
• Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and the center is set. Cool completely in the pan.
• Whisk powdered sugar and milk until smooth, adding a few drops more milk if needed for drizzling consistency. Drizzle over cooled bars.
• Lift bars from the pan using parchment and cut into 24 squares. Serve and enjoy.