Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt for the crust. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press half of the mixture into the prepared baking pan to form the base.
In another bowl, mix the cherry pie filling, cornstarch, and almond extract (if using) until well combined. Spread the cherry mixture evenly over the crust.
Sprinkle the remaining crust mixture over the top of the cherry filling, creating a crumble-like topping.
Bake the Cherry Pie Bars for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.

Holiday Bread Pudding