Special Occasion Cherry Bars are a delightful holiday treat that combines a buttery, tender base with sweet and tangy cherry pie filling. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family nights, these bars are not only easy to make but also pack a burst of flavor that everyone will love. With their vibrant color and delicious taste, Special Occasion Cherry Bars will quickly become a staple in your holiday baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Festive Flavor: The combination of buttery crust and cherry filling creates a mouthwatering dessert that captures the essence of the holiday season.
• Versatile Serving: These bars can be served at parties, family gatherings, or as a sweet treat for yourself. They’re perfect for any occasion!
• Make Ahead Option: You can bake these bars in advance and store them for later, making holiday prep easier and more efficient.
• Irresistible Texture: The soft base topped with the luscious cherry filling gives a delightful contrast that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Special Occasion Cherry Bars, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Baking pan: A 9×13 inch pan is perfect for even cooking and easy cutting into bars.
• Wire rack: Allows your bars to cool evenly, preventing sogginess on the bottom.

this recipe

Ingredients

To create these delicious Special Occasion Cherry Bars, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 1 cup butter (softened) (Provides the rich, buttery base for the bars.)
• 2 cups sugar (Adds sweetness and helps create a tender texture.)
• 4 eggs (Adds richness and structure to the batter.)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (Enhances the flavor of the bars with a warm, aromatic note.)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (The main dry ingredient that forms the structure of the bars.)
• 1 tsp salt (Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.)

For the Topping

• 1 can – 21 ounces cherry pie filling (Provides the sweet and tangy topping that makes these bars festive.)

How to Make Special Occasion Cherry Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking pan. This step ensures that your bars bake evenly without sticking.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
3. Blend in the vanilla extract for added flavor.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Mix together the flour and salt.
2. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Spread 3 cups of batter evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
Gently spread the cherry pie filling over this layer.
Drop small clumps of remaining batter over the cherry filling to create an appealing pattern.

Step 5: Baking

Bake in your preheated oven for 35-40 minutes.
Look for a golden brown top; ensure a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cooling

Allow your Special Occasion Cherry Bars to cool completely on a wire rack before adding any glaze.

Step 7: Adding the Glaze (Optional)

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Drizzle this glaze over your cooled bars for an extra touch of sweetness.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Once glazed, cut into squares or bars. Serve them up during holiday gatherings or enjoy them at home!

How to Serve Special Occasion Cherry Bars

Special Occasion Cherry Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or enjoying a cozy night at home, these bars can be served to impress your guests or simply savor for yourself.

Individual Servings

• Serve each bar on a small dessert plate for an elegant touch.
• Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the flavors.

Holiday Platter

• Arrange the bars on a festive platter, garnished with fresh cherries or mint leaves for a pop of color.
• Include other holiday desserts for an eye-catching dessert table.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate to complement the sweetness of the bars.
• Consider adding flavored syrups like caramel or hazelnut to the drinks for an extra special touch.

Afternoon Treat

• Cut smaller pieces for an afternoon snack option with tea.
• Add some nuts or dried fruits to the side for variety.

How to Perfect Special Occasion Cherry Bars

Creating the best Special Occasion Cherry Bars requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bars come out perfectly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to sit out before baking. This helps them mix better, resulting in a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars.
• Check Baking Time: Every oven is different; keep an eye on your bars as they bake. The edges should be golden while the center remains soft but set.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Cooling on a wire rack ensures even cooling and prevents sogginess before cutting.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add chopped nuts or coconut flakes on top before baking for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Special Occasion Cherry Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Special Occasion Cherry Bars can enhance your holiday spread. Here are some delightful options that complement these sweet treats.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that offers creamy contrast to the tangy cherry filling.
2. Hot Chocolate: Rich, warm, and comforting, this drink makes an ideal accompaniment during cold weather.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing side that balances sweetness with tartness; consider using seasonal fruits like oranges and pomegranates.
4. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese that provide a savory note against the sweetness of the bars.
5. Nutty Granola: Add crunch and health benefits by serving granola on the side; great with yogurt as well!
6. Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai enhance the festive spirit and pair nicely with cherry flavors.
7. Almond Biscotti: Crunchy and perfect for dipping, these cookies make an excellent textural contrast to soft bars.
8. Cinnamon Pecans: Sweet and crunchy, they add an indulgent touch when served alongside your dessert bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Special Occasion Cherry Bars is simple, but small errors can affect the final result. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Bold phrase: Not measuring ingredients accurately. Always use proper measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts.
• Bold phrase: Overmixing the batter. Mix just until combined to keep your bars tender and not tough.
• Bold phrase: Skipping the cooling step. Allowing the bars to cool completely helps set the layers and makes cutting easier.
• Bold phrase: Using old ingredients. Check expiration dates on baking powder and flour for the best results.
• Bold phrase: Not greasing the pan properly. Make sure to grease or line your baking pan to prevent sticking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.

Freezing Special Occasion Cherry Bars

• Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for freezer storage.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Special Occasion Cherry Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Special Occasion Cherry Bars:

What makes Special Occasion Cherry Bars special?

Special Occasion Cherry Bars combine a buttery base with sweet cherry filling, making them a delightful holiday treat.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Yes, you can make your own cherry filling with fresh cherries, sugar, and cornstarch for thickening.

How do I customize my Special Occasion Cherry Bars?

Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter or try different fruit fillings based on your preference!

How do I know when my bars are done baking?

The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars store well and can be made a few days in advance of your holiday gathering.

Final Thoughts

Special Occasion Cherry Bars are a wonderful addition to any holiday dessert table. Their sweet and tangy flavor pairs perfectly with festive gatherings, making them a hit among family and friends. Plus, you can easily customize them with different fillings or toppings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the deliciousness of these delightful treats!

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Special Occasion Cherry Bars

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the festive delight of Special Occasion Cherry Bars, a perfect holiday treat that combines a rich, buttery base with sweet cherry filling. These bars are not only visually appealing with their vibrant red topping but also offer a tantalizing mix of flavors that will leave everyone craving more. Ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy family nights, these easy-to-make bars allow you to bring the spirit of the season to your dessert table effortlessly. With a make-ahead option, you can simplify your holiday prep and ensure that you always have a delicious sweet treat on hand.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup softened butter
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla.
3. In another bowl, combine flour and salt, then gradually add to the creamed mixture.
4. Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan, layer with cherry pie filling, and drop remaining batter on top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown; a toothpick should come out clean.
6. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts on top before baking. Consider using fresh cherries with sugar and cornstarch for a homemade filling variation.