Cherry Bars for a Crowd

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Bar Batter
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined. The batter will be thick.
Step 3: Spread and Top with Cherry Filling
Spread the thick batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. It’s helpful to use a spatula or your hands to smooth it into an even layer.
Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the top of the batter, spreading it gently to cover the surface.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the bars are golden and a toothpick inserted into the edges comes out clean (the center may still be slightly soft, but will firm up as it cools).
Step 5: Make the Glaze
While the bars are cooling, make the glaze by whisking together the confectioner’s sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth.
Step 6: Glaze and Serve
Once the bars are fully cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top in a zig-zag pattern.
Slice into squares and serve.
Serving and Storage Tips