For
the crust:
- 3 c. all-purpose
flour
- 1 1/2 c. granulated
sugar
- 1 tsp. baking
powder
- 1 c. (2 sticks) unsalted
butter, softened just slightly {do not substitute margarine}
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp. almond
extract
For
the chocolate filling:
- 12 oz. (2 c.) semi-sweet
chocolate chips
- 8 oz. cream
cheese, softened
- 2/3 c. milk
- 1 c. slivered
almonds
- 1 c. red &
green M&Ms
Directions:
- PREPARE THE
CRUST: Mix
together flour, sugar, and baking powder. Cut butter into small pieces.
With an electric mixer on low speed, blend in almond extract, butter and
eggs. (Mixture will be VERY crumbly ... do not over mix. If mixed together
too well, the crust will bake up very hard.)
- Put 2/3 of the
crumb mixture in the bottom of a greased 9x13" baking dish; pat down
very lightly with your fingers. Set aside.
- PREPARE THE
CHOCOLATE FILLING: Put cream cheese, chocolate chips, and milk
in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 1 minute to melt, stirring after
30 seconds. (If not melted, microwave in 20-second intervals until
melted.) Once melted, stir in almonds.
- Pour chocolate
filling over prepared crust. Sprinkle remaining crumb mixture evenly on
top. Sprinkle M&Ms on top and gently press down into crumb
mixture with the palm of your hand.
- BAKE: Bake
at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes. Cool completely and cut into small
squares. Store in the refrigerator.
