Raspberry Almond Bars

Instructions

1. Heat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line an 8 or 9-inch square pan with foil and lightly grease the foil.
3. Mix flour, quick oats, and sugar in a large bowl.
4. Cut in the soft oleo until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Stir in almond extract until well blended.
6. Reserve about 1 cup of the oat mixture.
7. Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
8. Spread raspberry preserves over the crust, about 1/2 inch from the edges.
9. Mix sliced almonds with the reserved oat mixture.
10. Sprinkle the almond mixture over the preserves, pressing down gently.
11. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until edges are golden.
12. Allow to cool in the pan on a rack.
13. Lift the foil by the ends to remove the bars from the pan.
14. Cut into bars and serve.