There’s something undeniably comforting about biting into a sweet treat that captures the essence of summer. The first time I made these Cherry Bars, the kitchen filled with an irresistible aroma that drew my family in faster than a wisp of whipped cream can disappear on a dessert plate. Perfectly chewy and balanced with bursts of tart cherry goodness, these bars are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of flavor and nostalgia.
Whether you’re seeking a crowd-pleaser for your next potluck or simply craving a comforting homemade dessert, these Cherry Bars fit the bill. With minimal effort, you’ll have a delightful treat that goes wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The combination of buttery dough and sweet, sticky cherry filling is a reminder of simpler times when desserts were all about love and warmth. So, let’s dive into this recipe and bring that sunshine into your kitchen today!
Why are Cherry Bars the ultimate dessert?
Irresistible, these Cherry Bars offer a delightful combination of flavors that brighten every occasion. Easy to make, the straightforward process lets you create a stunning dessert with minimal fuss. Versatile, they pair perfectly with ice cream or whipped cream for that perfect summery treat. Crowd-pleaser status is a given, making them ideal for potlucks and family gatherings. Decadent cherry goodness wrapped in buttery dough makes every bite a nostalgic celebration of flavor.
Cherry Bars Ingredients
• Discover how to create these delightful red desserts with simple ingredients that bring your summer cravings to life!
For the Base
- Salted butter – provides richness and a wonderful flavor to the dough.
- Sugar – sweetens the batter and balances the tartness of the cherries.
- Salt – enhances overall flavor and complements the sweetness.
- Large eggs – act as a binding agent, giving structure to your cherry bars.
- Vanilla extract – infuses a warm, aromatic essence into the dessert.
- Almond extract – adds a subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries.
- Flour – forms the main structure of the bars, while creating a chewy texture.
For the Filling
- Cherry pie filling – the star of this recipe, offering juicy, tart bites in every slice!
For the Glaze
- Confectioners’ sugar – ensures a sweet, smooth topping that enhances the cherry bars’ appearance.
- Vanilla extract – complements the filling and adds a touch of warmth to the glaze.
- Almond extract – echoes the flavor in the base for delightful consistency.
- Whole milk – helps achieve the perfect glaze texture; adjust to your desired consistency with 2-3 tablespoons.
These Cherry Bars are an epitome of sweet joy, bringing together rich, buttery goodness with a vibrant cherry twist. Enjoy crafting these delightful red desserts!
How to Make Cherry Bars
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly. This will help the bars come out easily after baking!
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Cream together the 1 cup of salted butter and 2 cups of sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes; it will become pale in color.
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Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 4 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon almond extract to the mixture, and mix until fully combined. This adds a wonderful depth of flavor to your bars.
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Gradually incorporate 3 cups of flour, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want your bars to remain tender and chewy.
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Spread half of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out to form a solid base. This layer will provide a lovely foundation for the cherry filling.
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Pour the 2 cans of cherry pie filling (21 ounces each) over the dough, spreading it evenly. The vibrant red of the cherries will make your bars look absolutely stunning!
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Crumble the remaining dough over the cherry filling, covering it as evenly as possible. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; those little bits will bake up beautifully.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the center. You’ll know they’re ready when they smell amazing and the top is slightly cracked.
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For the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon almond extract, and enough whole milk (2-3 tablespoons) to achieve a smooth consistency. This will add a deliciously sweet finish.
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Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cherry bars before serving. This final touch adds elegance and an extra dose of sweetness!
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible combination!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cherry Bars Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to these already delightful Cherry Bars!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for a tasty alternative.
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Fruit-Filled: Experiment with different pie fillings like blueberry or peach for a unique fruity twist.
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Almond Joy: Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut and chocolate chips to bring an exciting flavor combination.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising warmth that pairs beautifully with cherries.
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Nutty Texture: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a delightful crunch.
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Lemon Zest: Brighten up the flavor by incorporating the zest of 1 lemon into the dough for a fresh, citrusy touch.
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Vegan Option: Replace butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs to create a compassionate version of these bars.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Swap the glaze with melted chocolate or a chocolate ganache for an indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
Don’t hesitate to mix and match; each variation brings a fresh new experience!
What to Serve with Cherry Bars?
To elevate your Cherry Bars into a delightful complete meal experience, consider pairing them with these delicious accompaniments.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, smooth texture of vanilla ice cream perfectly contrasts the chewy cherry bars, providing a rich, decadent delight.
Ice cream adds just the right amount of coolness to balance the warmth and sweetness of the bars, creating that classic dessert harmony. -
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch to your cherry bars.
Its subtle sweetness and fluffy texture beautifully complement the tartness of the cherries, making every bite a cloud of nostalgia. -
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce adds an indulgent twist to your cherry bars.
The combination of rich chocolate and sweet cherries creates a luxurious experience that chocolate lovers won’t be able to resist. -
Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti offers a delightful contrast in texture to the soft cherry bars.
Enjoying them together creates a delightful pairing of flavors that resonate beautifully, making this duo perfect for afternoon tea. -
Fresh Berries: A side of fresh strawberries or raspberries brings a burst of tartness to balance the sweet flavor of the cherry bars.
These vibrant fruits enhance the overall sensory experience and embody the essence of summer in every bite. -
Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea or sweetened lemonade complements your cherry bars well.
The cool beverage helps to cleanse the palate and enhances the sweetness of the dessert, making it a refreshing treat for any occasion. -
Coffee: Enjoying these cherry bars with a cup of strong coffee creates a delightful contrast.
The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the bars, making it an ideal combination for a winter afternoon. -
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy coconut treats provide a tropical twist and a unique texture that pairs wonderfully with cherry bars.
With their sweet, rich flavors, they enhance the vibrant taste of the cherry filling, creating a delightful fusion of flavors. -
Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of zesty lemon sorbet offers a refreshing palate cleanser.
This light dessert provides a vibrant contrast that beautifully complements the sweet, fruity notes of the cherry bars.
Expert Tips for Cherry Bars
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Butter Temperature: Use room temperature butter for easier creaming with sugar, resulting in a light and fluffy base for your Cherry Bars.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix the flour until just combined; overmixing can lead to dense bars. Aim for a tender, chewy texture!
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Cherry Filling Check: Ensure your cherry pie filling is evenly spread; this prevents uneven baking and ensures every bite is deliciously fruity.
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Cooling Time: Let the bars cool completely before applying the glaze to avoid it melting into the bars, ensuring a beautiful finish.
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Serving Suggestion: Pair these Cherry Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat, balancing the sweetness is key!
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Bars
Room Temperature: Store leftover Cherry Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture.
Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container; this also enhances the tart cherry flavor.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For the best taste, warm frozen bars in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds before serving, bringing out that delightful cherry goodness once again!
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the butter, sugar, eggs, and extracts before chilling it in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld. The cherry filling can also be layered over the dough in the baking pan and stored covered in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking; this helps maintain freshness and prevents the dough from becoming soggy. When ready to bake, simply pop the chilled pan into the preheated oven and bake as directed. With these make ahead tips, you’ll enjoy delicious Cherry Bars with minimal effort and maximum enjoyment!
Cherry Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cherries for my Cherry Bars?
Absolutely! When selecting cherries, look for plump, firm cherries that have a rich color and no dark spots. If you’re using fresh cherries, they should be fragrant and shiny. For canned cherry pie filling, make sure the cans are undamaged and not expired for the best flavor and quality.
How should I store leftover Cherry Bars?
You can store leftover Cherry Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them chilled, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain their texture!
Can I freeze Cherry Bars, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze Cherry Bars! To freeze, first ensure they are completely cooled. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply microwave for about 15-20 seconds to warm them up, allowing the sweet cherry flavor to shine!
What should I do if my Cherry Bars are too dry?
If your Cherry Bars end up dry, they may have been overbaked or the ingredient ratios might have been off. Next time, check for doneness a few minutes early, and ensure your butter is at room temperature for optimal mixing. You can also enhance moisture by adding a bit more cherry pie filling on top before crumbling the dough.
Are there any dietary considerations for Cherry Bars?
Certainly! These Cherry Bars contain butter, eggs, and flour, so they are not suitable for vegan diets. If you have a nut allergy, be cautious with the almond extract; you can substitute it with extra vanilla extract instead. Always check your cherry pie filling too, as some brands may use allergens. Additionally, if you’re serving to children or pets, moderation is key due to the sugar content!
How long does it take to make Cherry Bars from start to finish?
The total time can vary, but generally, you should allow about 15-20 minutes for prep and 35-40 minutes for baking. Remember to account for cooling time before adding the glaze, which can take an additional 30 minutes. A labor of love, but so worth it!
Delicious Cherry Bars Recipe for Irresistible Red Desserts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly.
- Cream together the 1 cup of salted butter and 2 cups of sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 4 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon almond extract to the mixture, and mix until fully combined.
- Gradually incorporate 3 cups of flour, mixing until just combined.
- Spread half of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Pour the 2 cans of cherry pie filling over the dough, spreading it evenly.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the cherry filling.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the center.
- In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup of confectioners' sugar, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon almond extract, and enough whole milk to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cherry bars before serving.