Almond Strawberry Bars (from Land O' Lakes)

Prep time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes

Makes: 3 dozen bars

Crumb mixture:

1/2 cup butter, slightly softened
1 1/4 cups all purpose flour
1/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar

Topping:

1/2 cup all purpose flour
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/4 cup butter, slightly softened
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
3/4 cup strawberry preserves

Glaze:

1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1 to 2 teaspoons milk

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In small mixer bowl combine all crumb mixture ingredients. Beat at low speed, scraping bowl often, until mixture is crumbly (1 to 2 minutes). Press on bottom of greased 9 inch square baking pan. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.

Meanwhile, in same bowl combine all topping ingredients except preserves. Beat at low speed, scraping bowl often, until well mixed (1 to 2 minutes). Set aside.

Spread preserves over hot crust to within 1/8 inch of edge. Sprinkle topping over preserves. Continue baking 20 to 25 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool completely.

Meanwhile, in small bowl stir together powdered sugar, almond extract and enough milk for desired glazing consistency. Drizzle cooled bars with glaze. Cut into bars.