Almond Raspberry Bars

SUBMITTED by grdma9, New Holland

"A pan of these thick bars makes a pretty presentation at any gathering. Almond extract is a nice complement to the buttery crust."

1 cup flour
3/4 cup oatmeal
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup margarine
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1/2 cup red raspberry preserves
1/3 cup sliced almonds

Pre-heat oven to 350º.  Line 8 or 9 inch square baking dish with foil, lightly grease foil. Mix flour, oats & sugar in bowl. Cut in margarine with pastry blender to make crumbs. Stir in extract. Reserve 1 cup crumbs, press remainder in bottom of pan. Spread preserves over top about 1/2 inch from edge. Mix almonds with reserved crumbs & sprinkle on top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Use foil to lift cooled bars from the pan onto a cutting board. Cut into bars.