MARBLED CHERRY BROWNIES

3 cups canned pitted dark sweet cherries*
FOR BATTER:
2 lb. brownie mix
2 eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
FOR CREAM CHEESE MIXTURE:
12 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup granulated sugar
3 eggs
2 tsp. almond extract
TO SERVE:
whipped cream or ice cream (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Buttered a 17x2xl-inch baking pan (half-sheet pan).

Drain cherries; reserve 1/2 cup liquid.

PREPARE BATTER:
Mix brownie mix, 2 eggs, oil, and reserved cherry liquid. Do not overmix. Gently stir cherries into brownie batter.

PREPARE CREAM CHEESE MIXTURE:
Mix cream cheese and sugar; add 3 eggs and almond extract.

ASSEMBLE AND BAKE:
Spoon brownie batter into prepared pan. Spoon cream cheese mixture over batter. Swirl mixtures together to give a marbled effect.

Bake at 350 degrees F 35 to 45 minutes or until wooden pick inserted near center comes out clean. Cool completely.

TO SERVE:
Cut cooled brownies into 4x6 pieces. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream, if desired.

*Three cups frozen pitted dark sweet cherries may be substituted.

Servings: 8
Source: National Cherry Growers & Industries Foundation