Creating the Epic Patriotic Sugar Cookie Bars can be straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Egg and Extracts: Incorporate the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) into the butter mixture, blending until combined.
5. Combine Dry and Wet: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until fully incorporated.
6. Divide Mixture: Split the dough into three equal parts. Leave one part plain, and color the second part red and the third part blue using food coloring.
7. Layer and Bake: Spread the plain mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Then layer the red and then blue mixtures on top. Use a knife to swirl them together slightly for a marbled effect. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, then frost with your preferred frosting and top with festive sprinkles.

These steps will guide you in creating these incredible cookie bars effortlessly.