Celebrate the holiday season with these delightful Christmas Cherry Bars—a perfect blend of buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and a hint of almond glaze. Ideal for festive gatherings and family celebrations, these bars are sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Introduction
Christmas Cherry Bars are a festive dessert that combines a buttery crust with sweet cherry filling, topped with a light almond glaze. These bars are perfect for holiday gatherings and family celebrations.
Recipe Overview
Cooking Time
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Preparation Time: 20 minutes
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Baking Time: 30–35 minutes
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Cooling Time: 30 minutes
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Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings
This recipe yields about 24–30 bars, depending on the size you cut them.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Festive Flavors: The combination of cherries and almonds brings a holiday spirit to every bite.
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Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars are beginner-friendly.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance and store them for a hassle-free holiday treat.
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Versatile: Customize with different fruit fillings or toppings to suit your taste.
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Crowd-Pleasing: Their vibrant colors and delicious taste make them a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients Notes
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Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the sweetness.
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Sugar: Granulated sugar is used for the crust, while powdered sugar is ideal for the glaze.
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Flour: All-purpose flour provides the right texture for the crust.
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Cherry Filling: Opt for a high-quality cherry pie filling or homemade filling for the best flavor.
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Almond Extract: Adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements the cherries.
How to Make Christmas Cherry Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add 2 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Bars
Spread about three-quarters of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Spread the cherry pie filling over the dough. Dollop the remaining dough over the cherry filling. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
While the bars are baking, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of almond extract until smooth.
Step 5: Finish the Bars
Once the bars are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan on a wire rack. After they have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares.
Storage Options
Store the Christmas Cherry Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Variations and Substitutions
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Different Fruit Fillings: Try using blueberry, raspberry, or apple pie filling for a different flavor profile.
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Nut-Free Version: Omit the almond extract and use a different glaze flavor, such as vanilla or citrus.
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Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg or chia egg in place of the eggs.
Pairings and Accompaniments
These bars pair wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or a glass of cold milk. They also make a delightful addition to a holiday dessert platter alongside cookies and other treats.
Comparison with Similar Recipes
Compared to traditional cherry pie, these bars offer a more portable and easy-to-serve option. They also bake faster and can be customized with various toppings and fillings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Should cherry bars be refrigerated?
Yes, especially if they contain dairy-based ingredients like cream cheese or sour cream. Refrigeration helps maintain freshness and prevents spoilage.
Can you freeze cherry pie bars?
Absolutely! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Best Time to Enjoy the Recipe
Christmas Cherry Bars are perfect for holiday celebrations, family gatherings, or as a sweet treat during the winter months. Their festive appearance and delicious flavor make them a seasonal favorite.
Presentation Tips
For an elegant touch, dust the cooled bars with powdered sugar or top them with a few fresh cherries before serving. Serving them on a decorative platter can also enhance their festive appeal.
Conclusion
Christmas Cherry Bars are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that captures the essence of the holiday season
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