Potluck Almond Bars

By Addie

These creamy treats are sized right for a buffet, notes Farmington, Minnesota reader Astrid Miller. "The portions are easy to handle," she notes. "And, because they're so nice and small, they aren't too filling." But don't be surprised if their sweet taste keeps guest coming back for more!

Ingredients

• CRUST:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• ................................
• FILLING:
• 2 packages (one 8 ounces, one 3 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• ................................
• FROSTING:
• 2 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
• 1/3 cup butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon milk
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• Sliced almonds, toasted

Preparation

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine the flour, sugar, butter and salt. Pat into an ungreased 13-in. x 9-in. baking pan. Bake at 350° for 15 minutes.

In a small bowl, combine filling ingredients; beat until smooth. Pour over crust. Bake 15-20 minutes longer or until edges are lightly browned. Cool completely on a wire rack.

For frosting, in a bowl, combine the sugar, butter, milk and extract; stir until smooth. Frost bars and sprinkle with almonds if desired. Store in the refrigerator. Yield: 3 dozen.
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REVIEW:

Very good flavor, the frosting is sweet but the other two layers are not so it balances out really well. A pan never lasts long in our house!