1 c. butter, divided
2 c. sifted flour, divided
2 tbsp. cold water
1 c. boiling water
1 tsp. almond flavoring
3 eggs
2 c. sifted confectioners' sugar
1 tbsp. butter
4 tbsp. cream or milk
1 tsp. vanilla
1/8 tsp. salt
Maraschino cherries, optional
Sliced, toasted almonds, optional

Cut 1/2 cup butter into 1 cup flour until it resembles coarse meal. Add cold water. Stir until well blended. Divide dough in half. press each half into a 3 x 12 inch oblong on an ungreased baking sheet. (If kitchen is hot, chill when making filling.)

Place boiling water and 1/2 cup butter into saucepan. Bring to boil. Add almond flavoring and remove from heat. Stir in 1 cup flour. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Spread this over oblongs. Bake at 400 degrees for 45 minutes.

FROSTING:

Frost while hot. Mix confectioners' sugar, 1 tablespoon butter, cream, vanilla and salt until well blended. Spread over hot oblongs. Sprinkle with drained, chopped cherries and toasted, sliced almonds. Serve fresh baked. 16 servings.