Cherry Cheese Brownies

1 (16-ounce) can dark sweet cherries
1 (15-ounce) brownie mix (8x8 pan size)
2 eggs, divided
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 (3-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
3/4 cup flaked coconut*
1 teaspoon almond extract

Drain cherries; reserve 1/4 cup cherry juice.

Put brownie mix in a large bowl. Add 1 egg, oil and reserved cherry juice; mix well. Gently stir in cherries. Set aside.

Put cream cheese and sugar in a medium mixing bowl. Beat with an electric mixer 3 to 4 minutes, or until well mixed. Add remaining 1 egg; mix well. Stir in coconut and almond extract.

Lightly grease an 8x8x2-inch baking pan. Spoon brownie mixture evenly into pan. Spoon cream cheese mixture over brownie mixture. Use a knife to swirl cream cheese mixture into brownie mixture.

Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven 35 to 40 minutes, or until wooden pick inserted near center comes out clean. Let cool. Cut into squares or bars.

*Note: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts can be substituted for coconut.

Makes 9 squares; 18 bars
Source: Oregon Cherry Growers