2 c. all-purpose flour
2 c. quick-cooking oats
1½ c. sugar
1¼ c. butter, softened
1 21-oz. can cherry pie filling
1 t. almond extract
1/4 c. semi-sweet chocolate chips
3/4 t. shortening
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, sugar and butter until crumbly. Set aside 1½ cups for topping. Press remaining crumb mixture into an ungreased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake at 350° for 15 to 18 minutes or until edges begin to brown. In a bowl, combine pie filling and extract; carefully spread over crust. Sprinkle with reserved crumb mixture. Bake 20 to 25 minutes more or until topping is lightly browned. Melt chocolate chips with shortening in microwave; stir until smooth. Drizzle over warm bars. Makes three dozen. These bars are not only delicious but very festive-looking.
Bonnie Gauld, Fife Lake
