Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Bars

1. Spread two-thirds of the shortbread dough evenly into the prepared pan.
2. Spoon the cherry pie filling over the dough, spreading it evenly.
3. Drop small spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the cherry filling, leaving some areas uncovered for a peek-a-boo effect.

Step 3: Bake

1. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are set.
2. Let the bars cool completely in the pan.

Step 4: Glaze and Serve

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
3. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.