Strawberry Jam Bars

My husband is a science teacher at our high school in town and was asked by the drama class to help out with their production of Usher a comedic adaptation of Edgar Allen Poe's works. 

He agreed and was assigned to play the character "The Mask of the Red Death".  He had 3 lines, served as announcer, did the thunder sound effects and got to wear his favorite Halloween costume.  He had an absolute blast working with the kids, getting to know many of them in new ways.  He really loves what he does and loved getting to spend some extracurricular time with the students. 

After their last performance they had a cast party and I sent him with these yummy bars.  They were a big hit.  I try to not bake with pre-packaged ingredients very often, but I was told that cookies were really good and so I decided to try them out.  They are pretty sweet, but that seemed to be just what the doctor ordered for the high school crowd.  I like that they are a fruity bar rather than laden with chocolate and caramel.  Don't get me wrong, I love an ooey gooey bar cookie as much as the next gal, but sometimes it's nice to have something with fresher flavors.  You could easily make these with any flavor of jam, or even an apple butter might be good!

1/2 c. butter, softened

1/2 c. packed brown sugar

1 egg

1 package white cake mix

1 cup finely crushed cornflakes

1 c. strawberry jam, or flavor of your choice

In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add egg; mix well. Gradually add dry cake mix and cornflakes. Set aside 1-1/2 cups for topping. Press remaining dough into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking pan.

Carefully spread jam over crust. Sprinkle with reserved dough; gently press down. Bake at 350° for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely on a wire rack. Cut into 24 bars