Christmas Cherry Bars

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with Christmas Cherry Bars a delectable blend of tart cherry pie filling, buttery dough, and a smooth glaze. These bars are a visual and culinary treat, with vibrant cherries and a snowy finish that mirrors the magic of the season. Perfect for gatherings, gifting, or savoring alongside a cozy cup of cocoa, these bars embody the joy and warmth of Christmas. Easy to prepare, they’re an ideal choice for busy holiday kitchens and sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any festive table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Bars:

  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cans cherry pie filling (21 oz each)

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 2–3 tablespoons whole milk

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 15×10-inch sheet pan with baking spray.
  2. In a stand mixer, cream together butter, sugar, and salt until light and fluffy.
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts.
  4. Gradually fold in the flour until a dough forms.
  5. Press 3 cups of the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Spread cherry pie filling evenly over the dough layer. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the cherry filling.
  6. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool completely in the pan.
  7. For the glaze, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bars.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes

Kcal: ~290 kcal per serving | Servings: 24 bars

The Perfect Festive Treat: Christmas Cherry Bars

As the holiday season approaches, it brings with it an air of joy, warmth, and indulgence. This is the time when kitchens come alive with the aroma of fresh bakes, spices, and sweet treats. Among the many festive favorites, Christmas Cherry Bars stand out as a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making them a quintessential dessert for your holiday table.

A Tradition of Joy

The origin of these bars is deeply rooted in the spirit of Christmas—comforting, cheerful, and irresistibly sweet. While traditional holiday treats like cookies and pies remain staples, cherry bars offer a refreshing twist. Combining the tartness of cherries with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crust, these bars are a modern classic. Their festive appearance, with vibrant cherry red hues and a drizzle of snowy glaze, captures the essence of the season, evoking memories of family gatherings, laughter, and the joy of giving.

Why Christmas Cherry Bars Are a Must-Try

What makes Christmas Cherry Bars special is their versatility and simplicity. Unlike elaborate cakes or time-intensive desserts, these bars are straightforward to prepare, yet they deliver a gourmet experience. The rich, buttery base provides a comforting foundation, while the cherry pie filling offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness. The glaze, lightly flavored with almond and vanilla extracts, adds a touch of sophistication, turning these bars into a show-stopping treat.

Another compelling reason to try these bars is their adaptability. While the recipe traditionally uses cherry pie filling, you can experiment with different fruit fillings, such as blueberries, raspberries, or even apple. For those with dietary restrictions, the bars can easily be made gluten-free by swapping out the flour for a gluten-free alternative. This flexibility ensures that everyone, regardless of preferences or needs, can enjoy these delightful treats.

The Science of Festive Baking

Baking during the holidays is more than just a culinary activity; it’s an experience steeped in tradition, love, and a bit of science. Christmas Cherry Bars exemplify the balance between texture, flavor, and presentation. The key lies in achieving the perfect consistency for each component.

The base, made from a combination of butter, sugar, and flour, must be tender yet sturdy enough to support the cherry filling. The filling itself, rich with the natural tartness of cherries, contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the crust. Finally, the glaze, made with confectioners’ sugar and milk, adds a glossy finish, enhancing both the taste and visual appeal of the bars.

A Treat for Every Occasion

While these bars are perfect for Christmas, their appeal extends far beyond the holiday season. They’re ideal for potlucks, tea parties, or as a simple weeknight dessert. Their portable nature makes them a great choice for gifting as well. Imagine presenting a beautifully wrapped box of cherry bars to a friend or neighbor—it’s a thoughtful gesture that’s sure to bring a smile.

If you’re hosting a holiday gathering, Christmas Cherry Bars can be the centerpiece of your dessert table. Pair them with other festive treats like gingerbread cookies, chocolate truffles, or spiced apple cider for a delightful spread. Their vibrant red color also makes them a fantastic addition to a themed holiday display.

Tips for Elevating Your Cherry Bars

For those looking to take their Christmas Cherry Bars to the next level, consider these tips:

  1. Add Spices: A touch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the dough or filling can add a warm, spiced note, enhancing the holiday flavor profile.
  2. Use Fresh Cherries: If you have access to fresh cherries, cooking them down with a bit of sugar and lemon juice creates a homemade filling that adds a fresh, tangy edge.
  3. Incorporate Nuts: A sprinkle of chopped almonds or pecans on top of the bars before baking can add a delightful crunch.
  4. Experiment with Glaze Flavors: Try substituting orange or lemon zest in the glaze for a citrusy twist that complements the cherries beautifully.
  5. Presentation Matters: Use a decorative drizzle technique for the glaze or cut the bars into festive shapes like stars or trees for a whimsical touch.

The Emotional Connection

There’s something magical about holiday baking that goes beyond the ingredients and methods. It’s about creating moments that linger in your memory long after the last crumb has been eaten. Baking Christmas Cherry Bars can become a cherished tradition, a way to bond with loved ones and share the joy of the season. Whether it’s the laughter of children helping to spread the cherry filling or the warmth of friends gathered around the table, these bars have a way of bringing people together.

Why These Bars Are Perfect for Busy Bakers

The holiday season is a whirlwind of activities, and finding time to bake can be challenging. Christmas Cherry Bars are a lifesaver for those who want a homemade treat without the stress. The recipe’s simplicity ensures that even novice bakers can achieve delicious results. With minimal preparation and a short baking time, these bars are a convenient yet impressive dessert option.

Conclusion:

Christmas Cherry Bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of the season’s joy and togetherness. Their vibrant flavors, festive appearance, and ease of preparation make them a staple for any holiday menu. Whether you’re sharing them with family, gifting them to friends, or savoring them by the fireside, these bars encapsulate the magic of Christmas in every bite.

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