Ingredients
3/4 cup butter, softened1/3 cup packed brown sugar2 tablespoons plus 1-1/2 teaspoons sugar1/8 teaspoon almond extract2 cups all-purpose flour1/8 teaspoon saltFILLING:1 cup plus 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar3/4 cup butter, cubed1/4 cup light corn syrup2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream1/4 teaspoon salt2-3/4 cups chopped walnuts, divided1 cup dried cherries, chopped2-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract3/4 cup white baking chips
Preparation
Preheat oven to 375°. In a large bowl, cream the butter, sugars and extract until light and fluffy. Combine flour and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Press onto the bottom of an ungreased 13x9-in. baking pan. Bake 8-10 minutes or until edges begin to brown.
Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, cream and salt. Bring to boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat; cook and stir 4 minutes or until slightly thickened.
Remove from the heat. Stir in 2-1/2 cups walnuts, cherries and vanilla; spread over crust. Bake 15-20 minutes or until bubbly. Sprinkle with baking chips and remaining walnuts; lightly press into filling. Cool on a wire rack. Cut into bars.
