1Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease 9 inch square baking pan.
2In top of a double boiler, melt chocolate chips and shortening, stirring frequently until smooth. Pour into a large bowl, and mix in sugar, cream cheese, and eggs. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts. Gradually mix in flour, baking powder and salt. Fold in almonds and pour the batter into pan.
3Bake for 35 to 40 minutes in the preheated oven, until toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Let cool in pan before cutting into bars.