Christmas Cherry Bars

Christmas Cherry Bars are festive, buttery dessert squares loaded with sweet cherries and topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges, these bars capture the colors and cheer of the season in a rich, delicious bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars are a holiday favorite for a reason. The tender, golden crust provides the perfect base for glistening cherries, while their elegant appearance makes them ideal for seasonal gifting or serving on a dessert platter. They’re easy to make in large batches, travel well, and keep beautifully, making them a reliable and crowd-pleasing option during the busy holiday season.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Almond extract (optional, but enhances cherry flavor)
• Cherry pie filling or pitted sweet cherries
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until fully combined.
5. Spread about two-thirds of the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
6. Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the batter.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the top. It’s okay if the cherries show through.
8. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
9. Cool completely in the pan, then dust with powdered sugar and cut into squares.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 24 bars
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Coconut Cherry Bars: Add shredded coconut to the top layer before baking for texture and a tropical twist.
• Nutty Finish: Sprinkle chopped pecans or almonds over the top for added crunch.
• Chocolate Chip Surprise: Mix mini chocolate chips into the batter for extra sweetness.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free alternative.
• Spiced Cherry Bars: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm holiday touch.

storage/reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. These bars can also be frozen—wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. No reheating is necessary, though you may warm them slightly if desired.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cherry filling?

Yes. A homemade cherry compote or filling made from pitted cherries, sugar, and cornstarch works beautifully.

Can I use fresh cherries?

Fresh pitted sweet cherries can be used, though they should be briefly cooked down with sugar and a thickener first.

Do these bars need to be refrigerated?

They can be stored at room temperature for a couple of days but last longer when refrigerated.

Can I freeze Christmas Cherry Bars?

Absolutely. Freeze them individually or as a whole batch. Thaw before serving for best texture.

What kind of pan should I use?

A standard 9×13-inch baking pan works best. Use parchment paper for easier removal and clean slicing.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, the recipe can be doubled and baked in a larger sheet pan if needed for big gatherings.

How do I get clean slices?

Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting and use a sharp knife. Wipe the blade clean between cuts.

Can I add frosting?

The bars are traditionally topped with powdered sugar, but a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk can also be used.

Are these bars overly sweet?

The cherry filling is sweet, but the mild, buttery crust balances it well. You can reduce the sugar slightly if desired.

Can I use almond extract?

Yes, and it’s highly recommended. A small amount enhances the cherry flavor beautifully.

Conclusion

Christmas Cherry Bars are a festive favorite that brings joy and flavor to any holiday spread. With their buttery base, jewel-like cherry topping, and light dusting of powdered sugar, they capture the spirit of the season in every bite. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, these bars are a must-have for your holiday baking list.

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