CHERRY BARS

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Introduction

Cherry Bars are a delightful dessert that perfectly balance the sweetness of buttery shortbread crust with the tart burst of cherry filling. Topped with a delicate glaze, these bars are both beautiful and satisfying, offering a taste reminiscent of homemade cherry pie in a convenient, hand-held form. Ideal for potlucks, holidays, or afternoon treats, Cherry Bars are simple to make yet elegant enough to impress at any gathering.

Origin and Cultural Significance

The roots of Cherry Bars trace back to traditional Midwestern baking, where fruit preserves and pie fillings were often transformed into easy-to-share desserts for large families and community events. Cherries, particularly tart varieties, have long been a symbol of celebration—appearing in everything from George Washington’s legendary cherry tree tale to summer harvest festivals across America. Cherry Bars became especially popular in the 1950s and 1960s as convenient versions of fruit pies that required no fork or plate, embodying the postwar love for practical yet homemade desserts.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Bars:

  • 1 ½ cups butter, softened
  • 3 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 5 large eggs
  • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ teaspoons almond extract
  • 5 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 3 tablespoons milk

Optional Additions

  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon – for a warm, spiced undertone.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest – to enhance the tartness of the cherries.
  • ½ cup chopped pecans or almonds – for added crunch.
  • 1 teaspoon rum or amaretto extract – for a rich, aromatic flavor twist.
  • White chocolate drizzle or vanilla icing – for an extra indulgent finish.

Tips for Success

  1. Use room temperature butter and eggs – this ensures a smooth, creamy batter.
  2. Do not overmix the dough – once the flour is added, mix until just combined to maintain tenderness.
  3. Line your pan with foil or parchment – for easy removal and cleaner edges.
  4. Cool completely before glazing – the glaze will set better on cooled bars.
  5. Use quality cherry pie filling – or make your own for a fresher, less-sweet flavor.
  6. Reserve dough properly – the topping dough should be scattered in small pieces for an even, rustic finish.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12×17-inch jelly roll pan with aluminum foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Cream the butter and sugar in a stand mixer for 1–2 minutes, until light and fluffy.
  3. Add eggs, salt, vanilla, and almond extracts. Mix until fully incorporated.
  4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually add to the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
  5. Reserve 1¾ cups of dough for the topping.
  6. Press remaining dough evenly into the prepared pan.
  7. Spread cherry pie filling evenly over the dough layer.
  8. Drop reserved dough in small spoonfuls over the cherry filling.
  9. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
  10. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  11. Prepare the glaze: Whisk together confectioners’ sugar and milk until smooth.
  12. Drizzle the glaze evenly over cooled bars.
  13. Cut into 35 squares and serve.

Description

These Cherry Bars are soft, buttery, and bursting with fruity flavor. Each bite reveals a tender, cake-like base paired with sweet-tart cherry filling and a delicate drizzle of sugary glaze. The almond extract deepens the flavor, making it both nostalgic and refined. The bars slice cleanly and serve beautifully—perfect for dessert trays or festive occasions.

Nutritional Information (per bar, makes about 35)

  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg
  • Sodium: 95mg
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g

(Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and serving size.)

Conclusion

Cherry Bars are a heartwarming dessert that bridge nostalgia and convenience. Their delightful combination of buttery crust, bright cherry filling, and silky glaze creates a dessert that’s both homey and elegant. They store well and travel beautifully, making them a favorite for sharing love and sweetness with family and friends.

Recommendation

Serve these bars with a cup of coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. They also make a lovely addition to holiday dessert platters, church suppers, or family reunions. You can easily adapt this recipe using blueberry, apple, or raspberry pie filling for variety.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Indulge in moderation—Cherry Bars are a wonderful example of celebrating food as joy. For a lighter twist, you can:

  • Use half butter, half Greek yogurt for reduced fat.
  • Choose low-sugar cherry filling or make your own with fresh cherries.
  • Substitute whole wheat pastry flour for part of the all-purpose flour for added fiber.
    Remember, a small portion enjoyed mindfully brings more satisfaction than restraint without pleasure.

Would you like me to create a holiday-themed version of these Cherry Bars (with white chocolate drizzle and festive sprinkles) next?

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