Christmas Cherry Bars
As the joyful season of Christmas approaches, the kitchen transforms into a haven of delightful aromas and bustling activity. Among the festive treats, Christmas Cherry Bars stand out as a deliciously sweet and colorful addition to your holiday table. With their bright cherries nestled in a buttery crust, these bars are sure to bring a merry touch to your celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Christmas Cherry Bars are not just eye-catching; they’re also incredibly tasty. The buttery crust paired with the sweet and tangy cherries creates a perfect balance of flavors. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these bars are a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Spatula
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 8×8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, and powdered sugar. Mix until crumbly. Press this mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
- In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined. Stir in the cherry pie filling, and if using, add the chopped nuts and shredded coconut.
- Pour the cherry mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly browned.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the butter is softened for easy mixing with the flour and powdered sugar.
- For a more vibrant cherry flavor, use high-quality cherry pie filling.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Add a drizzle of melted white chocolate over the cooled bars for extra sweetness and decoration.
- You can substitute the cherries with other pie fillings like blueberry or apple for a different twist.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 3g
- Sugar: 20g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these cherry bars can be made a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze Christmas Cherry Bars?
Absolutely! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Are these bars suitable for nut allergies?
You can omit the nuts from the recipe if you have a nut allergy or prefer them without.
Conclusion
Celebrate the holiday season with these delightful Christmas Cherry Bars, a treat that’s as festive as it is delicious. Perfect for sharing, these bars are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Give them a try, and don’t forget to share your festive creations with family and friends!
