Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 0.5 teaspoon almond extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
  • 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2.5 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
  • 1 pinch salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl or stand mixer, cream 1 cup softened butter and 1.5 cups granulated sugar on medium-high for 3 minutes until pale and fluffy.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, followed by 1 tablespoon vanilla and almond extract, mixing well and scraping the sides of the bowl.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Turn the mixer to low and gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing only until the last streak of flour disappears.
  6. Press the dough evenly into the prepared 9x13 pan. Bake for 25 minutes or until the edges are very lightly golden (do not overbake).
  7. Allow bars to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
  8. Prepare the frosting by beating 0.5 cup butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla, and a pinch of salt for 5 minutes until it looks like a soft, velvety cloud. Spread over cooled bars and cut into 24 squares.