These Old-Fashioned Cherry Bars combine a buttery, shortbread base with a rich, chewy cherry and coconut topping, creating a deliciously nostalgic treat. With a hint of vanilla and the crunch of optional pecans, these bars are a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Ideal for sharing at gatherings or simply enjoying as an afternoon treat, these bars are a delightful throwback to traditional desserts with a modern twist.
Ingredients
For the Bottom Layer
- 250 g all-purpose flour (2 cups)
- 30 g icing sugar (powdered sugar) (1/4 cup)
- 225 g unsalted butter, softened (1 cup)
For the Top Layer
- 300 g firmly packed brown sugar (1 1/2 cups)
- 300 g glacé cherries, cut in quarters (2 cups)
- 4 large eggs
- 100 g dried coconut, finely shredded (1 cup)
- 5 ml vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
- 120 g chopped pecans (optional) (1 cup)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bottom Layer : Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it and lining the bottom with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and powdered sugar. Incorporate the softened butter and blend until a smooth dough forms. Evenly press this dough into the base of the lined pan to create the crust. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the surface is gently golden. Once done, take it out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- Prepare the Top Layer : In a separate mixing bowl, beat the eggs until they are well combined. Gradually add the brown sugar, stirring until smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract. Fold in the glacé cherries, dried coconut, and chopped pecans (if using) until evenly combined.
- Assemble and Bake : Pour the cherry and coconut mixture over the baked bottom layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.
- Cool and Cut : Allow the bars to cool thoroughly in the baking pan, then use the parchment paper to carefully lift them out. Slice into squares or bars and serve.
Conclusion
These Classic Old-Fashioned Cherry Bars are a delightful mix of buttery crust and sweet, chewy topping. Perfect for any special occasion or just to indulge in a delicious, retro-style treat, these bars are sure to become a favorite for their rich, layered flavors and satisfying texture. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a nostalgic treat!
Classic Old-Fashioned Cherry Bars
Ingredients
For the Bottom Layer
- 250 g all-purpose flour 2 cups
- 30 g icing sugar powdered sugar (1/4 cup)
- 225 g unsalted butter softened (1 cup)
For the Top Layer
- 300 g firmly packed brown sugar 1 1/2 cups
- 300 g glacé cherries cut in quarters (2 cups)
- 4 large eggs
- 100 g dried coconut finely shredded (1 cup)
- 5 ml vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
- 120 g chopped pecans optional (1 cup)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bottom Layer : Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it and lining the bottom with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and powdered sugar. Incorporate the softened butter and blend until a smooth dough forms. Evenly press this dough into the base of the lined pan to create the crust. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the surface is gently golden. Once done, take it out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- Prepare the Top Layer : In a separate mixing bowl, beat the eggs until they are well combined. Gradually add the brown sugar, stirring until smooth. Mix in the vanilla extract. Fold in the glacé cherries, dried coconut, and chopped pecans (if using) until evenly combined.
- Assemble and Bake : Pour the cherry and coconut mixture over the baked bottom layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.
- Cool and Cut : Allow the bars to cool thoroughly in the baking pan, then use the parchment paper to carefully lift them out. Slice into squares or bars and serve.