Raspberry Squares

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 cups oats
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup toasted almond, finely chopped (pecans or walnuts are good too)
• 12 tablespoons butter, cut into 12 pieces and softened but still cool
• 1 cup raspberry preserves (or what ever flavor strikes your fancy, SEE NOTE)