Almond Chocolate Shortbread Bars

Step 1

Pre-heat oven to 350F/180C. Line an 8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper.

Step 2

Place the slivered almonds on a baking sheet and bake 3-4 minutes, move to a clean bowl to cool.

Step 3

In a medium/large bowl beat the butter and sugar until creamy approximately 2 minutes, beat in the vanilla, sift in the flour and salt, beat just until mixed. Press the dough evenly onto the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden. Cool completely before adding the filling.

Step 4

In a medium/large bowl beat the butter until smooth, gradually add the powdered sugar, beat until fully combined. Add the cream and almond extract, beat 2 minutes. Spread over the cooled base. Cover with plastic wrap and chill 30 minutes or until firm. Cover with the melted chocolate and sprinkle with slivered almonds. Chill 30 minutes then cut and serve. Enjoy!

Step 5

Melt the semi sweet chocolate and butter until smooth, let cool approximately 10 minutes before spreading over the filling.