Christmas Cherry Bars are a festive treat that features a buttery, tender base topped with sweet and tangy cherry pie filling. Easy to make and perfect for holiday gatherings, these bars will quickly become a favorite addition to your holiday baking repertoire.
1cupbuttersoftened (Provides the rich, buttery base for the bars.)
2cupssugarAdds sweetness and helps create a tender texture.
4eggsAdds richness and structure to the batter.
1tspvanilla extractEnhances the flavor of the bars with a warm, aromatic note.
3cupsall-purpose flourThe main dry ingredient that forms the structure of the bars.
1tspsaltBalances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
1can - 21 ounces cherry pie fillingProvides the sweet and tangy topping that makes these bars festive.
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then blend in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix together the flour and salt. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until fully incorporated.
Assemble the Layers: Spread 3 cups of the batter evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Gently spread the cherry pie filling over the layer of batter. Drop small clumps of the remaining batter over the cherry filling.
Baking: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooling: Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before adding the glaze.
Adding the Glaze (Optional): Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
Finish and Serve: Cut the dessert into bars after the glaze has set. Serve and enjoy.
Notes
These bars can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For a decorative touch, drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze after cooling.