Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
Step 2: Make the Crust
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt to the mixture, mixing on low speed until a crumbly dough forms. The mixture should stick together when pressed between your fingers.
- Set aside about 1 1/2 cups of this mixture to use as the topping.
- Press the remaining dough evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to create a smooth, even layer. Set the pan aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cherry Filling
- In a saucepan, combine the pitted and halved cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cherries release their juices and the mixture thickens, usually about 5-7 minutes.
- If using almond extract, stir it into the cherry filling after removing it from the heat.
