Nothing says holiday cheer quite like a tray of Christmas Cherry Bars. These delightful bars combine a buttery, tender crust with a luscious cherry filling, finished with a crisp, sugary topping that makes every bite a perfect balance of sweet and tart. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering, gifting homemade treats, or simply craving a seasonal indulgence, these bars are guaranteed to impress.
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Ingredients & Their Roles
2 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base structure for the crust and topping, giving the bars a tender yet sturdy texture.
1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and a buttery flavor that balances the sweet cherries.
3/4 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the crust and topping, creating a delightful contrast to the tart cherries.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses the crust with a warm, aromatic undertone.
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling – The star of the recipe; provides a vibrant, tart-sweet center bursting with holiday flavor.
1/2 cup powdered sugar (optional) – For dusting the finished bars, adding visual appeal and extra sweetness.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and salt, mixing until combined. Gradually fold in the flour until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Press the Base
Take about two-thirds of the dough and press it firmly into the prepared pan to form an even crust. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to ensure it’s compact.
4. Add the Cherry Filling
Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the crust, making sure it reaches the edges for maximum flavor in every bite.
5. Top with Remaining Crust
Crumble the remaining dough over the cherries to create a rustic, golden topping. This gives the bars their signature texture—slightly crunchy on top, tender underneath.
6. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.
7. Optional Finishing Touch
Once cooled, dust the bars with powdered sugar for a festive look and a hint of extra sweetness.
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Why These Bars Are Loved
Easy yet impressive: Minimal steps yield a treat that looks and tastes gourmet.
Perfect balance: Sweet, tart, buttery, and crumbly textures in every bite.
Versatile for the holidays: Great for parties, cookie exchanges, or gifting.
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Pro Tips for the Perfect Christmas Cherry Bars
1. Room-temperature butter ensures a smooth, easy-to-mix dough.
2. Press the crust firmly—it prevents sogginess from the cherry filling.
3. Evenly distribute the topping for a uniform bake.
4. Cool completely before slicing to avoid messy bars.
5. Experiment with nuts: Add chopped almonds or pecans to the topping for extra crunch.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Pair with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine for cozy holiday vibes.
Cut into bite-sized squares for a festive party platter.
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Conclusion
These Christmas Cherry Bars are the ultimate holiday indulgence: simple to make, visually stunning, and bursting with rich, fruity flavor. From the buttery crust to the luscious cherry filling and crisp topping, every bite evokes the spirit of the season. Perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying with loved ones, this recipe g
uarantees smiles with minimal effort. Bake a batch today and make your holiday celebrations unforgettable!
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