Put butter and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed 3 to 4 minutes or until well mixed.

 

Combine flour, oats, and baking soda. Add flour mixture to sugar mixture; mix on low speed until crumbly. Spread two-thirds of the oat mixture into the bottom of an ungreased 13" x 9 x 2" baking pan. Press down to make a firm layer.

 

Purée cherry filling with an electric blender or food processor until smooth. Pour puréed cherry filling into a medium saucepan. Combine granulated sugar and cornstarch; stir into cherry filling. Cook, stirring constantly, over low heat until mixture is thick and bubbly. Stir in almond extract. Pour cherry mixture over oat layer; spread evenly. Top with remaining oat mixture. Bake in preheated 350 degree F oven 30 to 35 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool before cutting into bars.

 

Makes 32 bars.