Cherry Cake

CHERRY CAKE

1/2c butter, softened
1c sugar
2 eggs
2c all purpose flour
1T baking powder
1/4t salt
1t vanilla
1/3c milk
1 (19oz) can cherry pie filling
2T sugar
1/4c sliced almonds (optional)

Combine all ingredients except fruit filling, 2T sugar and almonds in a large bowl. Blend, then beat for 3 minutes at medium speed. Spread 3/4 of dough evenly in greased 13x9" baking pan. Spoon cherry fruit filling on top and spread gently to cover surface. Drop remaining dough by small spoonfuls over cherry layer. Sprinkle 2T sugar and sliced almonds over top. Bake at 350F for about 45 minutes or until golden brown.