Serving Christmas Cherry Bars can be a joyous affair in itself. They can be presented as a standalone treat, dusted lightly with powdered sugar to evoke a winter wonderland aesthetic, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delectable contrast. For a touch of extravagance, drizzle a bit of dark chocolate over the top before serving. A cup of hot cocoa, spiced cider, or a glass of milk would complement the sweet tartness of the cherries beautifully, forging a quintessential holiday flavor palette. These bars also pair splendidly with savory nibbles or finger sandwiches if included as part of a larger holiday buffet or tea time spread.
Ingredients:
1 cup of butter, softened
2 cups of sugar
4 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
For the glaze (optional):
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk
½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture and mix well.
Prepare the Base: Spread 3 cups of batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Add Cherry Filling: Carefully spread the cherry pie filling over the batter.
Top Layer: Drop the remaining batter in small clumps over the filling.
Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool: Cool completely on a wire rack.
Vanilla Glaze (Optional)
Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Drizzle: Once the cherry bars are completely cooled, drizzle the vanilla glaze over them.
Serve: Cut into bars and serve after the glaze has set.
Enjoy these scrumptious Christmas Cherry Bars as a festive highlight to your holiday season!