Christmas Cherry Bars
Christmas Cherry Bars are not just a dessert; they’re a festive celebration packed into a delightful treat. Each bite takes you on a nostalgic journey through the holiday season, evoking memories of family gatherings, warm celebrations, and sweet traditions. My first encounter with these bars was at a holiday potluck, and I can say they were the star of the dessert table. The cherry filling nestled atop a buttery crust, drizzled with a sweet almond glaze, creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Ideal for Christmas, these bars are also versatile enough to indulge in any time you crave something sweet and festive.
What makes this recipe special
Why choose Christmas Cherry Bars for your next holiday gathering? The answer is simple: they’re quick to whip up, budget-friendly, and loved by both kids and adults alike. Not only do they make for a charming addition to your festive spread, but their eye-catching presentation and mouthwatering taste make them a surefire hit. Plus, these bars can easily be prepared ahead of time, leaving you stress-free as you enjoy holiday merriment with family and friends.
"These Cherry Bars have become a family tradition! So easy to make and they disappear in no time!" – Happy Baker
The cooking process explained
Creating Christmas Cherry Bars is a straightforward and satisfying experience. You’ll start by baking a buttery base that perfectly supports the luscious cherry filling. Then, it’s all about layering in flavor with a simple glaze. This recipe is not only quick but also allows you to engage your kids in the kitchen—who wouldn’t love drizzling glaze over those beautiful cherry bars?
Gather these items
Before you dive into making these delightful bars, ensure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
If you’re looking to switch things up a bit, you might experiment with using butter alternatives or reconsider the type of extract you use for the glaze—it could lead to exciting flavors!
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the greased dish and let it bake for 15 minutes.
- After removing it from the oven, evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the warm crust.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond extract, powdered sugar, and milk until you achieve a smooth glaze. Drizzle this over the cherry filling.
- Place it back in the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the glaze is set but still bright.
- Allow the pan to cool before cutting it into delicious squares.
Best ways to enjoy it
To create an impressive dessert display, consider serving your Christmas Cherry Bars on a decorative platter dusted lightly with powdered sugar. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate the experience. Alternatively, these bars pair beautifully with a hot cup of cocoa or spiced tea, making them a delightful end to a winter meal.
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing your Christmas Cherry Bars is easy! Simply keep the leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to prolong their life, they freeze incredibly well. Just layer the bars between parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Remember to let them cool completely before freezing for best results!
Helpful cooking tips
For an even more flavorsome experience, consider popping these bars in the oven for an extra few minutes to achieve a golden-brown crust. If you’d like to experiment, try adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cherry filling for an aromatic twist. And don’t be afraid to play around with the almond extract—vanilla is also a fantastic choice if you prefer something different!
Creative twists
While the classic cherry version is hard to beat, there are plenty of fun variations you can explore! Substitute the cherry pie filling for blueberry or raspberry to switch up the flavors, or get creative with toppings like crushed nuts or drizzled white chocolate. You could even infusion a hint of lemon zest into the glaze for extra brightness. The possibilities are as endless as they are delicious!
Your questions answered
-
How long do Christmas Cherry Bars take to make?
The total time from prep to baking is roughly 45-55 minutes, making them a quick option for last-minute holiday gatherings. -
Can I substitute fresh cherries for pie filling?
Absolutely! If using fresh cherries, be sure to cook them down with some sugar and a bit of cornstarch to thicken before spreading them on your crust. -
How do I know when the glaze is set?
The glaze should appear glossy but not runny, and it may have a slight crust on the surface when it’s ready. -
Can these bars be made ahead of time?
Yes! They are perfect to make a day or two in advance. Just store them appropriately to maintain freshness.
With these tips, tricks, and information, you’re all set to create memorable Christmas Cherry Bars that will surely be a highlight of your holiday festivities!
Christmas Cherry Bars
Ingredients
For the base
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the filling and glaze
- 1 can cherry pie filling (21 ounces)
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the greased dish and let it bake for 15 minutes.
- After removing it from the oven, evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the warm crust.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond extract, powdered sugar, and milk until you achieve a smooth glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cherry filling.
- Place it back in the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the glaze is set but still bright.
- Allow the pan to cool before cutting it into squares.
