Cherry Pie Bars for Any Gathering with Glaze

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 15x10 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and aerated, approximately 3 minutes.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the almond extract.
4. Slowly incorporate the all-purpose flour and fine sea salt into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
5. Spread approximately 3/4 of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan, using an offset spatula to create an even, flat layer.
6. In a small bowl, stir the lemon juice into the cherry pie filling to brighten the flavor. Spread the filling evenly over the unbaked bottom crust.
7. Drop the remaining 1/4 of the dough in small spoonfuls over the top of the cherry layer to create a decorative crumble effect.
8. Bake for 45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
9. Prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bars before slicing into 24 squares.