TRUFFLE BROWNIES WITH ALMONDS

1 box family-size fudge brownie mix

1/2 cup water
1/2 cup canola oil
1 egg
3/4 cup chopped almonds
1 tsp almond extract

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Grease a 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking pan; set aside.

In a large bowl combine the all the ingredients listed above.  Pour into the prepared baking pan and bake at 350 degrees for 23 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.  Never overbake brownies!  Place pan on a wire rack to cool.

FILLING:
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 block (8-oz) cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk
1/2 tsp almond extract

Melt the chocolate chips in a bowl in the microwave, stirring until smooth.  Cook in 15 to 20 second intervals, stir after each to smooth so you can see if the chips are fully melted.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together.  Add the milk, almond extract, and the melted chocolate chip; mix together well.  Spread mixture over the cooled brownies.  Chill for about an hour or until firm.

TOPPING:
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted

In a small saucepan melt the chocolate chips with the cream over low heat, stirring often.  Allow to cool slightly and spread over the cream cheese filling.  Sprinkle the almonds over the top.  

Refrigerate at least an hour before cutting to serve.

The file photo.