Here’s a detailed, unique article about Christmas Cherry Bars, with a clear, step-by-step method to make them:
Christmas Cherry Bars: A Festive Treat Bursting with Flavor
When the holiday season arrives, there’s nothing quite like the sweet, tangy, and buttery delight of Christmas Cherry Bars. These vibrant bars combine a tender, buttery crust with a luscious cherry filling, all topped with a delicate crumble that adds a festive touch to your dessert table. Perfect for gift-giving, holiday parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of cocoa, these bars are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Here’s how to make them from scratch.
Ingredients
For the Crust and Crumble:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cherry Filling:
- 1 can (21 oz / 595g) cherry pie filling, or homemade cherry compote
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar (optional, depending on sweetness of cherries)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, if filling seems runny)
Optional Topping:
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Slivered almonds for garnish
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.
Step 2: Make the Crust
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough forms a crumbly, yet slightly cohesive texture.
- Press two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared pan, forming the base of your bars.
Step 3: Prepare the Cherry Filling
- If using canned cherry pie filling, drain slightly if it’s very liquidy.
- For extra thick filling, mix in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch.
- Spread the cherry filling evenly over the pressed crust.
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