CHOCOLATE AMARETTO BARS

FOR THE CRUST:
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter or margarine, cut into pieces, softened
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
FOR THE FILLING:
4 large eggs
3/4 cup light corn syrup
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup amaretto liqueur or 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 cups (about 7 ounces) sliced almonds
2 cups (12-ounce package) NestleŽ Toll HouseŽ Semisweet Chocolate Morsels, divided use

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease 13 x 9-inch baking pan.

TO MAKE THE CRUST:
Beat flour, butter and sugar in large mixer bowl until crumbly. Press into prepared baking pan.

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown.

TO MAKE THE FILLING:
Beat eggs, corn syrup, sugar, liqueur, butter and cornstarch in medium bowl with wire whisk. Stir in almonds and 1 2/3 cups morsels. Pour over hot crust; spread evenly.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until center is set. Cool in pan on wire rack.

TO MAKE THE CHOCOLATE DRIZZLE (OPTIONAL):
Place remaining morsels in heavy-duty plastic bag. Microwave on high (100%) power for 30 to 45 seconds; knead. Microwave at 10- to 20-second intervals, kneading until smooth.

Cut tiny corner from bag; squeeze to drizzle over bars. Refrigerate for few minutes to firm chocolate before cutting into bars.

Makes 2 1/2 dozen bars
Source: Nestle Toll House