Cherry Chocolate Chip Bars

2 1/4 c. SR flour

1 c. sugar

2/3 c. butter, softened (10 2/3 T.)

1 c. milk

1 t. almond extract

5 large egg whites

1 c. mini semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 c. maraschino cherries, dried and quartered, (about a 12 oz. jar)

Frosting:

2 c. powdered sugar

1 c. butter, softened

1 t. vanilla or almond extract (I used almond)

1 T. maraschino cherry juice

1 T. milk

Preheat oven to 350. Spray 9x13 pan. Beat all bar ingredients together, except cherries, chips, and egg whites. Start on low scraping sides as needed, turn to medium once ingredients are combined and beat for 2 minutes. Add egg whites and beat again for 2 minutes on medium. Stir in cherries and chips. Pour in pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, until toothpick comes out clean in the center. Allow to cool completely before frosting. For the frosting, beat all ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Spread frosting on cooled bars. Sprinkle with additional chocolate chips if desired. Enjoy!

1st pic: ready to bake; 2nd pic: finished baking; 3rd pic: frosted and ready to eat; 4th pic: inside piece (mine was more like a cake , than a bar, but still delicious!)