Norwegian Almond Bars

1 3/4 c all-purpose flour
3/4 c sugar
1 t baking powder
1/2 ts salt
3/4 c margarine or butter, softened

1 1/4 c powdered sugar
1/2 c mashed potato flakes
1/2 c water
1 t cinnamon
1/2 ts cardamom
1 egg
1 tube (7 oz) almond paste

Heat oven to 375. Lightly spoon flour into measuring cup; level off. In large bowl, combine flour and remaining base ingredients; blend until crumbs form. Press half of mixture in ungreased 13x9" pan. Reserve remaining mixture for topping. In large bowl, combine all filling ingredients; blend well. Spread over base; sprinkle reserved mixture over filling. Bake at 375 for 25-30 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool completely; cut into bars.