Merry Cherry Bars

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Cherries, the vibrant and juicy fruits that burst with flavor, are an absolute delight.

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Merry Cherry Bars
Prep
10 min
Cook
30 min
Total
45 min
Servings
36

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).

  2. In a large bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until it becomes light and fluffy.

  3. Add the egg and almond extract to the bowl and continue to beat until well combined.

  4. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour and salt.

  5. Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until well blended.

  6. Stir in 1/2 cup of the cherries.

  7. Press the dough into an ungreased 9x13 inch baking pan.

  8. Sprinkle the remaining cherries and crushed candies over the dough.

  9. Gently press the cherries and candies into the dough.

  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.

  11. Allow the baked goods to cool completely in the pan before icing.

  12. To make the icing, combine the confectioners' sugar and water until it reaches a drizzling consistency.

About this recipe

Merry Cherry Bars: A Perfect Treat for Every Occasion

Cherries, the vibrant and juicy fruits that burst with flavor, are an absolute delight. And what better way to enjoy their sweetness than in the form of Merry Cherry Bars? These delectable treats are the perfect combination of a buttery crust, a luscious cherry filling, and a crumbly streusel topping. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet indulgence, these bars will surely satisfy your taste buds.

The Art of Making Merry Cherry Bars

Making Merry Cherry Bars is like crafting a masterpiece. It requires precision, patience, and a touch of creativity. Just like an artist who carefully selects their colors and brushes, you too must choose the finest ingredients and tools to create a flawless dessert. From mixing the dough to assembling the layers, every step is crucial in ensuring that your bars turn out picture-perfect.

The Crust: A Foundation of Butter and Goodness

Every great dessert needs a solid foundation, and the crust of Merry Cherry Bars is no exception. Just like a sturdy base supports a towering structure, a buttery crust provides the perfect base for the layers of cherries and streusel. It adds a delightful crunch and a rich buttery flavor that complements the sweetness of the cherries.

The Filling: A Burst of Juicy Cherry Goodness

Now, let's talk about the star of the show – the cherry filling. Imagine biting into a bar and experiencing the burst of juicy cherries in every mouthful. It's like a symphony of flavors, with the sweet and tart cherries harmonizing perfectly with the buttery crust. The filling is made with love and care, ensuring that each cherry is bursting with flavor.

The Streusel Topping: A Crumbly Finishing Touch

Finally, we come to the crumbly streusel topping, the cherry on top of these delightful bars. Just like the finishing touches on a masterpiece, the streusel adds texture and depth to the bars. With its buttery crumbs and hints of cinnamon, it creates a delightful contrast to the smooth cherry filling. It's the perfect finishing touch to these Merry Cherry Bars.

In Conclusion

Merry Cherry Bars are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. With their buttery crust, juicy cherry filling, and crumbly streusel topping, they are sure to impress and satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. So, go ahead and indulge in these mouthwatering bars. Your taste buds will thank you!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work just as well in Merry Cherry Bars. Just make sure to thaw them before using and adjust the sweetness accordingly.

Can I substitute the streusel topping with a glaze?

While a glaze can add a different touch to the bars, the crumbly streusel topping is what gives Merry Cherry Bars their distinctive texture and flavor. It's highly recommended to stick to the original recipe.

Can I use a different fruit filling instead of cherries?

Of course! While cherries are the star of Merry Cherry Bars, you can experiment with different fruit fillings such as blueberries or raspberries. Just remember to adjust the recipe accordingly.

How long do Merry Cherry Bars stay fresh?

If stored in an airtight container, Merry Cherry Bars can stay fresh for up to 5 days. However, they are so delicious that they rarely last that long!

Can I freeze Merry Cherry Bars?

Absolutely! Merry Cherry Bars freeze beautifully. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

Can I use gluten-free flour for the crust?

Yes, you can! Feel free to use gluten-free flour for the crust if you have dietary restrictions. The bars will still turn out delicious.

Can I add nuts to the streusel topping?

Definitely! Adding chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the streusel topping can add an extra layer of crunch and flavor to the bars.

Can I make Merry Cherry Bars in advance?

Absolutely! Merry Cherry Bars are a great make-ahead dessert. You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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