Christmas Cherry Bars are the ultimate festive treat that brings back so many beautiful memories of holiday gatherings for me. Growing up, my family always made desserts a centerpiece of our celebrations, and these cherry bars were a staple. The aroma of almond and cherries wafting through the kitchen always made my heart soar with joy. If you’re looking for a sweet treat to take to your next holiday party or just want to indulge yourself, I invite you to try this simple yet delicious recipe. Let’s get baking!
Table of Contents
Origin of the Recipe: A Holiday Classic
Christmas desserts have long been a cherished tradition in many households, with variations ranging from pies to cakes, each having their unique cultural influences. The idea of using cherries in desserts dates back to the early 20th century, when canned fruit became widely available, making it easier for families to create sweet treats throughout the year. The origins of cherry bars can often be traced back to classic fruit bars that were popularized in American kitchens through cookbooks and community gatherings.
These bars provide the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making them ideal for the holiday season. Families often gathered around their tables, sharing stories, laughter, and of course, delightful treats. It’s easy to serve and share, making it a perfect dessert for holiday gatherings, just like this Christmas Cranberry Meatballs recipe.
In recent years, the shift towards easier and quicker recipes led many to embrace the convenience of cherry pie filling, allowing busy home bakers to bring deliciousness to the table without sacrificing flavor. Therefore, these bars not only symbolize festive joy, but they also serve the purpose of fast and flavorful holiday treats.
Why This Recipe Works: Perfectly Festive Bars
So, why are these Christmas Cherry Bars so beloved? It’s a combination of simplicity, flavor, and nostalgia. Let’s break down some of the key elements of what makes this recipe a winner.
Buttery Shortbread Base
The base of these bars requires only three ingredients: unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and all-purpose flour. These simple components come together seamlessly to create a rich, buttery shortbread layer that supports the cherry filling wonderfully. This buttery goodness not only provides a crumbly texture but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the cherry filling.
Sweet Cherry Filling
A can of cherry pie filling makes this recipe an absolute breeze to prepare! It’s sweet, tart, and filled with that iconic cherry flavor that instantly brings a smile to your face. The richness of the filling contrasts beautifully with the lightness of the crust, making each bite a delightful experience. You can also opt for homemade cherry filling based on fresh cherries if you’re looking for an extra-special touch. This versatility allows for variations, like trying different fruit fillings, which is similar to the versatile experience of making Snickers Salad for a different flavor twist.
Almond Glaze
What really takes these Christmas Cherry Bars to the next level is the almond glaze. Made from powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract, it boasts a light almond flavor that complements the cherry filling delightfully. A drizzle of this glaze not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a sweet finish that enchants everyone who takes a bite. The smell of almond in the oven is like a warm hug in the kitchen; it fills the air with holiday cheer!
For a touch of elegance, consider garnishing with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of festive red and green sprinkles, making your treat even more celebratory! For more exciting dessert ideas, check out this delightful Caramel Apple Fritter Bread.
Step-by-Step Instructions + Tips
Now that we’ve covered the reasons why this recipe shines, let’s dive into how to make these delicious Christmas Cherry Bars. I’ll provide you with clear step-by-step instructions and some handy tips along the way!
1. Preheat Your Oven
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars cook evenly and achieve that lovely golden-brown color. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
2. Crean Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps incorporate air, resulting in a fluffy texture in your crust.
| Ingredients | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 1 cup |
| Granulated Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 cups |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cherry Pie Filling | 1 can (21 ounces) |
| Powdered Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Almond Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Milk | 2-3 tablespoons |
3. Add Flour and Salt
Next, gradually add in 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/4 teaspoon salt, mixing until combined. The dough should be slightly crumbly but still hold together when pressed.
4. Press the Dough into the Pan
Now, press the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Use your fingers or a spatula to get an even layer, which will be the base for the cherry filling!
5. Spread the Cherry Pie Filling
Carefully spread the can of cherry pie filling over the dough layer, ensuring even coverage to provide a delicious cherry flavor in every bite. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
6. Prepare the Almond Glaze
While the bars are baking, mix together 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of almond extract, and 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth. This glaze adds that delightful final touch.
7. Allow to Cool and Drizzle
Once the bars are done, allow them to cool completely before drizzling the almond glaze on top for maximum appeal. Cut into squares and serve them at your next holiday gathering!
Variations & Serving Ideas
These Christmas Cherry Bars are versatile, opening the door to endless customization! If you’re feeling inspired, here are a few ideas to elevate your dessert game:
Fruit Variations
Aside from cherries, you can switch up the filling with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even apple pie filling. Each fruit will lend its unique flavor profile, making it fun for gatherings throughout the year.
Nutty Delight
If you’re a fan of crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the crust or as a topping on the glaze. This nuttiness complements the sweetness of the cherries exceptionally well.
Gluten-Free Option
If you need a gluten-free variation, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture will still remain delightful and delicious!
Serve with Ice Cream
Serve these bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures. The creaminess of the ice cream pairs beautifully with the sweet cherry topping, creating a dessert experience that’s sure to impress! For another great dessert, give the No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake a try.
Final Thoughts
In embracing the warmth and love of the holiday season, Christmas Cherry Bars emerge as a must-have recipe that’s as easy to make as it is to share. Each bite evokes a taste of nostalgia, reminding us of family gatherings and holiday cheer. Whether you decide to stick with the classic cherry filling or explore exciting flavor variations, these bars are sure to become a staple in your home. I hope your friends and family savor each slice as much as mine do!
Looking for more holiday dessert inspiration? Explore our complete guide to Christmas brownie and bar recipes, packed with rich brownies, festive bars, and easy seasonal treats. Remember to pin your favorites for reference and to stay connected with all our holiday recipes on Pinterest!
FAQ
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?
Using fresh cherries is a great option! If you opt for fresh, be sure to pit and slice them before adding them to the bars. A little cornstarch can help thicken the filling if needed.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll last for up to a week, and you can enjoy them chilled or warmed in the microwave.
Can I freeze these cherry bars?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Christmas Cherry Bars once they have completely cooled. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and they should be fine for up to three months.
What can I substitute for almond extract?
If you’re not a fan of almond extract, you can substitute it with vanilla extract. It will give the glaze a slightly different flavor but still taste delicious!
Are these bars suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! This Christmas Cherry Bars recipe is entirely vegetarian-friendly, making it a perfect dessert option for your plant-based friends.
Christmas Cherry Bars
A festive and simple dessert featuring a buttery shortbread crust, sweet cherry filling, and a delightful almond glaze.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until combined.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
- Spread the cherry pie filling over the dough layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
- While baking, prepare the almond glaze by mixing powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk until smooth.
- Allow the bars to cool and drizzle with the almond glaze before cutting into squares.
Notes
For variations, try different fruit fillings, add chopped nuts for crunch, or serve warm with ice cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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