CHERRY BARS

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Crust

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour and salt to the mixture, mixing on low speed until a crumbly dough forms. The mixture should stick together when pressed between your fingers.
4. Set aside about 1 1/2 cups of this mixture to use as the topping.
5. Press the remaining dough evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to create a smooth, even layer. Set the pan aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cherry Filling

1. In a saucepan, combine the pitted and halved cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
2. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cherries release their juices and the mixture thickens, usually about 5-7 minutes.
3. If using almond extract, stir it into the cherry filling after removing it from the heat.