These Christmas Cherry Bars are a delightful holiday treat that combines a soft, buttery base with a sweet cherry filling and an optional vanilla glaze. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply enjoying with loved ones, these bars bring a touch of festive color and sweetness to any gathering. Easy to make and cut into squares, they’re the ideal dessert for sharing during the holiday season.
Ingredients
For the Cherry Bars
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
For the Glaze (Optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15×10-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the Batter : In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Incorporate the eggs individually, ensuring thorough mixing after each addition. Next, blend in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Slowly introduce the flour mixture into the butter mixture, stirring gently until everything is barely combined.
- Assemble the Bars: Spread about two-thirds of the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Spread the cherry pie filling over the batter, making sure it’s evenly distributed. It’s okay if some cherry filling shows through; this will give a beautiful marbled effect when baked.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Glaze (Optional): In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cherry bars for added sweetness and decoration.
- Cut and Serve: Once the bars have cooled and the glaze has set, cut them into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Conclusion
These Christmas Cherry Bars are a wonderfully festive dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing. The buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and optional vanilla glaze create a delicious combination that’s sure to impress. Whether for a holiday party or a cozy night in, these cherry bars are a delightful way to celebrate the season!
Festive Christmas Cherry Bars with Vanilla Glaze
Buttery and soft cherry bars with a touch ofvanilla, perfect for holiday gatherings and festive treats.
Ingredients
For the Cherry Bars
- 1 cup butter softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 can 21 ounces cherry pie filling
For the Glaze Optional
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15×10-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the Batter : In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Incorporate the eggs individually, ensuring thorough mixing after each addition. Next, blend in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Slowly introduce the flour mixture into the butter mixture, stirring gently until everything is barely combined.
- Assemble the Bars: Spread about two-thirds of the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Spread the cherry pie filling over the batter, making sure it’s evenly distributed. It’s okay if some cherry filling shows through; this will give a beautiful marbled effect when baked.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Glaze (Optional): In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cherry bars for added sweetness and decoration.
- Cut and Serve: Once the bars have cooled and the glaze has set, cut them into squares. Serve and enjoy!