Cherry Kuchen Bars

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 15x10 baking pan with a bit of butter. Set aside.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the shortening and butter for 1 minute on medium speed.

Step 3

Add the sugar, baking powder, and salt. Beat together until thoroughly combined and mixture is smooth.

Step 4

Add the eggs and vanilla, and beat until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 5

Add the flour one cup at a time, mixing with the electric beater until the dough gets thick. Then, switch to a wooden spoon and stir in any remaining flour.

Step 6

Reserve 1½ cups of the dough, and press the remaining dough into the prepared baking pan.

Step 7

Bake for 12 minutes, then remove from oven.

Step 8

Spread the cherry pie filling over the crust, then spoon small amounts of the reserved dough over the top.

Step 9

Bake for 25 to 28 minutes longer, or until lightly golden brown.

Step 10

Remove from oven and set on a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 11

While the bars cool, prepare the icing by combining the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk in a small bowl, adding the milk 1 tablespoon at a time until desired thickness is achieved.

Step 12

Once bars have completely cooled, drizzle with icing, cut, and serve.