Preheat the oven
to 325°F/170°C/gas 3. Line a 13 x 9-inch (33 x
23-cm) baking pan with aluminum foil, letting the
edges overhang.
Base: Sift the
flour, cocoa, and salt into a medium bowl.
Beat the butter, sugar, and vanilla in a large bowl
with an electric mixer at high speed until creamy.
Mix in the dry
ingredients. Firmly press the mixture into the
prepared pan to form a smooth, even layer. Prick all
over with a fork.
Bake for
15-20
minutes, or until
firm to the touch. Increase the oven temperature to
375°F/190°C/gas 5.
Filling: Mix the
preserves and liqueur in a small bowl and spread it
evenly over the base. Sprinkle with the chocolate
chips.
Process the
finely ground almonds, egg whites, sugar, and almond
extract in a food processor or blender until well
blended.
Pour the mixture
over the preserves and sprinkle with the flaked
almonds. Bake for 20-25
minutes, or until
lightly browned.
Using the foil as
handles, lift onto a rack and let cool completely.
Remove the foil and cut into bars.