First Step: PREPARE THE CHERRY FILLING

1. Prepare the Cherries: If you’re using fresh or frozen cherries, start by pitting them. If using frozen cherries, make sure to thaw them before use. If you’re using canned cherry pie filling, you can skip this step and move on to the next.
2. Cook the Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture over medium heat until it begins to thicken, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the mixture has thickened to a jammy consistency, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool while you prepare the crust.

Second Step: MAKE THE CRUST

1. Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This process will help create a soft and buttery crust.
3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, and beat well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. The dough will be thick and slightly crumbly.

Third Step: ASSEMBLE THE BARS

1. Press the Dough into the Pan: Take about 2/3 of the dough mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to press the dough into an even layer, making sure it covers the entire bottom.
2. Add the Cherry Filling: Once the cherry filling has cooled slightly, spread it evenly over the crust layer. Be sure to cover the entire surface with the cherries for an even distribution of flavor.
3. Add the Topping: Take the remaining dough and crumble it over the top of the cherry filling. This will form a crumbly topping that creates a beautiful contrast with the cherry filling below. Don’t worry about covering the entire surface, as the topping will spread slightly during baking.

Fourth Step: BAKE THE CHERRY BARS

1. Bake the Bars: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Keep an eye on the bars during the last 10 minutes of baking to ensure the crust doesn’t over-brown.
2. Cool the Bars: Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to cut the bars into squares. After cooling, transfer the bars to the refrigerator to chill for an hour or more for easier slicing.

Fifth Step: DRIZZLE WITH GLAZE AND SERVE

1. Prepare the Glaze: While the bars are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract (if using) in a small bowl. The glaze should have a smooth, pourable consistency.
2. Drizzle the Glaze: Once the bars have cooled and set, drizzle the glaze over the top of the bars. You can either drizzle it over the whole pan or cut the bars into squares and drizzle individual pieces.
3. Serve: Cut the bars into squares and serve. They can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled for an extra refreshing treat.