Ingredients
4 ounces bittersweet chocolate
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 ounces cream cheese
3/4 cup granulated white sugar
1/4 cup dark brown sugar
3 eggs
1 tablespoon all-purpose unbleached flour
1 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsifted flour
1/2 cup coarsely chopped almonds
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
Preparation
Melt the chocolate and 3 tablespoons of the butter in a saucepan over very low heat. Stir constantly. Cool. Cream remaining 2 tablespoons of the butter with the cream cheese until softened. Gradually add 1/4 cup of the granulated white sugar, creaming until fluffy. Blend in 1 egg, 1 tablespoon flour, and 1/2 teaspoon of the vanilla. Set aside. Beat the remaining 2 eggs until thick and light. Gradually beat in the remaining 1/2 cup granulated white sugar and brown sugar. Add the baking powder, salt, and 1/2 cup flour. Blend in cooled chocolate mixture, nuts, remaining 1 teaspoon vanilla, and almond extract. Spread half of the chocolate mixture in a greased 8- or 9-inch square pan. Top with cheese mixture. Spoon remaining chocolate mixture onto cheese mixture with spatula. Swirl through batter. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes in a preheated 350 degree F oven. Cool. Cut in bars.
