Scandinavian Almond Bars

This is a recipe I found in a Taste Of Home magazine.  These were a HUGE hit at work & home.  They are perfect with a cup of coffee or for dessert. 

Ingredients

• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon 2% milk
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds, chopped

ICING:

• 1 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 to 2 tablespoons 2% milk

Directions

• In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
• Beat in egg and extract. Combine dry ingredients; add to creamed mixture and mix well.
• Divide dough into fourths; form into 12-in. x 3-in. rectangles. Place 5 in. apart on greased baking sheets. Brush with milk; sprinkle with almonds.
• Bake at 325° for 18-20 minutes or until firm to the touch and edges are lightly browned. Cool on pans for 5 minutes, then cut diagonally into 1-in. slices. Remove to wire racks to cool completely.
• In a small bowl, combine the confectioner's sugar, extract and enough milk to achieve desired consistency; drizzle over bars. 

Recipe can also be found at: http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Scandinavian-Almond-Bars