Introduction

Cherry bars are a delightful treat that perfectly balance sweet and tangy flavors. This recipe features a buttery crust complemented by a luscious cherry filling, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. Perfect for picnics, family gatherings, or a cozy evening at home, these cherry bars are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

For the crust and topping:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt

For the cherry filling:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Prep Time

The prep time for these delicious cherry bars is approximately 15 minutes, allowing you to quickly get everything ready for baking.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time for the cherry bars is about 30 minutes. In total, from prep to finish, you can expect about 45 minutes of time. This recipe yields approximately 24 delicious cherry bars, perfect for sharing!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.

Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated and crumbly.

Press the Crust

Transfer the crust mixture to the prepared baking dish. Press it down firmly and evenly across the bottom, creating a solid base.

Bake the Crust

Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Mix the Cherry Filling

In a separate bowl, combine fresh or frozen cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir until the cherries are evenly coated.

Assemble the Bars

Pour the cherry filling over the baked crust, spreading it out evenly.

Prepare the Topping

In the same bowl used for the crust, combine additional flour, oats, brown sugar, and butter. Mix until crumbly.

Add the Topping

Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the cherry filling.

Bake the Bars

Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly.

Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and place them on a cutting board. Slice into squares.

Serve

Enjoy the cherry bars warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Storage

Store leftover cherry bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week.

Cherry Options

You can use fresh, frozen, or canned cherries for this recipe. If using canned cherries, be sure to drain them well.

Gluten-free Option

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Customization

Feel free to add nuts or other fruits to the filling for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These cherry bars are delicious on their own but can also be served with whipped cream or ice cream for a delightful treat.

Cook techniques

Chilling Butter

Using chilled butter ensures a flakier texture in the crust. It helps create a tender and crispy base for the cherry bars.

Mixing Dry Ingredients

Thoroughly mixing the dry ingredients before incorporating the wet ones ensures even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the batter.

Pressing the Dough

Pressing the dough firmly into the pan creates a solid base that holds together well when baked, ensuring that the bars don’t crumble apart.

Even Layering of Filling

Spreading the cherry filling evenly over the crust prevents it from becoming too soggy and ensures every bite is flavorful.

Baking Time and Temperature

Maintaining the proper baking time and temperature is crucial for achieving a golden crust and fully cooked filling. Monitor closely to prevent over-baking.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

What can I substitute for butter?

You can substitute butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute for a dairy-free option.

How do I know when the cherry bars are done baking?

The cherry bars are done when the edges are golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cherry bars a day in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

How should I store leftover cherry bars?

Store leftover cherry bars in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Conclusion

The cherry bars recipe is a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cherries with a sweet, buttery crust. It’s perfect for any occasion, from potlucks to family gatherings. The balance of flavors and textures makes these bars irresistible, and they are sure to please both cherry lovers and skeptics alike. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as a make-ahead dessert!

More recipes suggestions and combination

Peach Bars

Experiment with juicy peaches to create a summery twist on the classic cherry bars. The sweet and tangy flavors work beautifully with the buttery crust.

Blueberry Lemon Bars

Combine fresh blueberries and a zesty lemon layer for a refreshing and fruity alternative. The bright flavors are perfect for a sunny day.

Raspberry Almond Bars

Try raspberries combined with almond extract for an elegant touch. The nutty flavor enhances the tartness of the berries, creating a delicious pairing.

Mixed Berry Crumble Bars

Use a mixture of berries—strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries—for an all-in-one berry experience. The crumble topping adds an extra crunch and depth of flavor.

Chocolate Cherry Bars

For a decadent dessert, combine cherries with chocolate. Add chocolate chips or chunks to the base for a rich, sweet flavor contrast with the tart cherries.

Apple Cinnamon Bars

Switch up the fruit by using apples and add a dash of cinnamon. This combination brings a cozy fall flavor that’s perfect any time of year.

Nutty Oat Bars

Incorporate oats and your choice of nuts for a hearty, wholesome treat. This variation can be enjoyed as a snack or a breakfast option.