Introduction
Are you craving a delicious and tangy treat that is perfect for any occasion? Look no further than these mouthwatering Cherry Bars! The combination of sweet cherries and buttery crust creates a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert, or simply want to indulge your sweet tooth, these Cherry Bars are the perfect choice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cherry Bars are not only incredibly delicious, but they are also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a homemade dessert that will impress your family and friends. The buttery crust pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy cherry filling, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Plus, these bars can be made ahead of time and stored for later, making them a convenient option for busy schedules.
Ingredients
To make these scrumptious Cherry Bars, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of delectable Cherry Bars:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Set aside about 1 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture for the topping.
- Press the remaining crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cherry pie filling with the almond extract (if using).
- Spoon the cherry filling evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the cherry filling.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
- If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Expert Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to ensure that your Cherry Bars turn out perfectly every time:
– Make sure the butter is cold when cutting it into the flour mixture. This will help create a flaky and tender crust.
– If you prefer a more pronounced almond flavor, you can increase the amount of almond extract or add a splash of amaretto to the cherry filling.
– Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into them. This will help them set and make them easier to handle.
Variations and Substitutions
While these Cherry Bars are absolutely delicious as is, there are a few variations and substitutions you can try:
– Swap the cherry pie filling for another fruit filling, such as blueberry or raspberry.
– Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to the crumb topping for added crunch.
– For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour.
Serving Suggestions
These Cherry Bars are delightful on their own, but you can take them to the next level by serving them with a few accompaniments:
– Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
– Pair them with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
– Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh cherries on top for an extra special presentation.
FAQs
Q: Can I use homemade cherry pie filling instead of canned?
A: Absolutely! Homemade cherry pie filling will work just as well and can add a personal touch to the bars.
Q: How should I store the Cherry Bars?
A: These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can also store them in the refrigerator for a slightly longer shelf life.
Q: Can I freeze the Cherry Bars?
A: Yes, these bars freeze well. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container before freezing. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Final Thoughts
Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of these delectable Cherry Bars. With their buttery crust and luscious cherry filling, they are sure to become a favorite among your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for an easy dessert for a special occasion or simply want to satisfy your sweet tooth, these Cherry Bars are the perfect choice. Give this recipe a try and prepare to be delighted!
Delicious Cherry Bars Recipe: A Sweet and Tangy Treat for Any Occasion!
Delicious and tangy Cherry Bars with a buttery crust and sweet cherry filling. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are easy to make and sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Set aside about 1 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture for the topping.
- Press the remaining crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cherry pie filling with the almond extract (if using).
- Spoon the cherry filling evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the cherry filling.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
- If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Nutrition Facts
