Cherry Bars are the kind of dessert that makes you feel like a kid again, with a sweet and tangy cherry filling that dances between buttery crust layers. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing your taste buds and making your mouth water before you even take a bite. Picture this: fresh cherries, glistening in the sunlight, bursting with juicy sweetness while a sugary glaze coats them like a warm hug. It’s the perfect treat for picnics, potlucks, or just when you need a pick-me-up after a long day.
Every time I whip up a batch of Cherry Bars, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would bake all day long. The sound of the oven timer chiming would bring us running, hoping for a slice before dinner. These bars are not only delicious but also evoke memories of laughter and love shared around the table. So grab your apron and get ready for an adventure filled with flavor and nostalgia.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cherry Bars are incredibly easy to make, perfect for bakers of any skill level.
- The sweet-tart flavor combo is utterly irresistible and keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
- They’re visually stunning with a glossy cherry topping that can brighten any dessert table.
- Ideal for sharing at family gatherings or enjoying as an afternoon snack with coffee.
I remember the first time I brought these Cherry Bars to a family gathering—the way everyone’s eyes lit up with each bite is something I’ll never forget.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Cherries: Use ripe cherries for the best flavor; they should be firm and glossy.
Granulated Sugar: This balances the tartness of the cherries; adjust according to your taste.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating that perfect crust; make sure to sift it for fluffiness.
Baking Powder: A must for leavening; ensure it’s fresh to achieve that lovely rise.
Unsalted Butter: Choose high-quality butter for rich flavor; let it soften at room temperature before using.
Eggs: They bind everything together; use large eggs for best results.
Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract whenever possible.
Powdered Sugar: For dusting on top; it adds sweetness without being overwhelming.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cherry Bars
Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while greasing a 9×13 inch baking pan with nonstick spray. This ensures easy removal later.
Create the Crust Mixture: In a large bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in softened butter until crumbly—think sandy beach vibes!
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Mix in eggs and vanilla extract until well combined. The batter will be sticky but that’s exactly what we want!
Spread Half of the Batter in Pan: Pour half of the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing it evenly across the bottom. Don’t worry if it looks uneven; this is homemade charm!
Add Cherry Filling: Spread fresh pitted cherries evenly over the batter layer. Sprinkle some more sugar on top if you like it sweeter—it’s like giving your cherries their own party!
Top with Remaining Batter: Dollop spoonfuls of remaining batter over the cherries—it doesn’t have to cover completely because those juicy jewels need room to shine!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake in preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top and toothpick inserted comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
These steps will guide you smoothly through making Cherry Bars that will impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every moment as you create these delightful treats that spark joy and nostalgia!
You Must Know
- Cherry Bars are a delightful treat, combining sweet and tart flavors in a chewy, buttery crust.
- Their vibrant color and aroma make them perfect for any gathering.
- Easy to make, they’re a hit at potlucks and family gatherings.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the crust to save time. Shape the dough and layer it in the pan, then combine the cherry filling before baking for that perfect golden finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out fresh cherries for frozen or even mix in some almonds for added crunch. A sprinkle of cinnamon can also elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Cherry Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them, then reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh cherries when possible for the best flavor; they make a noticeable difference.
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for easier mixing.
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling.
There’s nothing quite like hearing my friends sing praises about these Cherry Bars at every gathering! Their smiles after tasting my creation keep me inspired in the kitchen.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cherries for Cherry Bars?
Yes, frozen cherries work well; just thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
How do I know when my Cherry Bars are done baking?
Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbling cherry filling as signs they’re ready.
Can I add other fruits to my Cherry Bars?
Absolutely! Mixing berries or peaches with cherries creates a deliciously unique flavor combination.
Cherry Bars
Cherry Bars are a nostalgic dessert that combines sweet and tangy cherry filling beneath a buttery crust. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a cozy afternoon treat, these bars bring back fond memories and delight taste buds with their vibrant flavor. Easy to make and visually stunning, they’re sure to impress at any gathering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix flour, ¾ cup granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until crumbly.
- Stir in eggs and vanilla until combined; the batter will be sticky.
- Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan. Top with cherries and sprinkle with remaining sugar.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the cherries.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (75g)
- Calories: 215
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: For added texture, consider mixing in chopped almonds or a sprinkle of cinnamon. You can substitute fresh cherries with frozen ones; just ensure they’re thawed and drained.
