Sweet Christmas Cherry Bars Recipes

 As the holiday season approaches, it's time to indulge in festive treats that bring joy and warmth to our gatherings. Christmas Cherry Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of cherries with a buttery, crumbly base. These bars are perfect for sharing at holiday parties or enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace. Here's how you can make these delicious treats!

Description

Christmas Cherry Bars are a vibrant dessert featuring a rich shortbread crust, a sweet and tangy cherry filling, and a crumbly topping. Their beautiful red color makes them a stunning addition to any holiday dessert table. The combination of textures—from the soft filling to the crunchy topping—creates a delightful treat that is sure to impress your family and friends.



Ingredients

For the Base and Topping:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup rolled oats

For the Cherry Filling:

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted and chopped)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

Method

  1. Prepare the Cherry Filling:

    • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract. Stir gently and cook until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

  2. Make the Base and Topping:

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
    • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
    • In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture until combined.
    • Stir in the rolled oats until evenly distributed.

  3. Assemble the Bars:

    • Press half of the crust mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even layer.
    • Spread the cherry filling evenly over the crust.
    • Crumble the remaining crust mixture on top of the cherry filling.

  4. Bake:

    • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.

  5. Cut and Serve:

    • Once cooled, cut into squares or bars. Serve as a delightful holiday treat!

Variations & Tips

  • Fruit Filling: While cherries are a classic choice, you can experiment with other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or a combination of berries.
  • Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the topping for added texture and flavor.
  • Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for an extra indulgent touch.
  • Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Conclusion

Christmas Cherry Bars are a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday season with a treat that is both festive and delicious. Their easy preparation and adaptability make them a perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Whether you share them with loved ones or keep them all to yourself, these bars are sure to bring a smile to anyone's face. So, gather your ingredients, put on your favorite holiday tunes, and enjoy making these delightful treats!

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