The holiday season is synonymous with festive gatherings, where food plays a central role in bringing people together. Among the most cherished traditions is the art of Christmas baking, a time-honored practice that fills homes with the sweet aromas of cinnamon, vanilla, and other warm spices. From cookies to cakes, Christmas desserts are an integral part of the celebrations.
Dessert bars, in particular, have gained immense popularity during the holidays due to their versatility and ease of sharing. These bars can be easily sliced, served, and enjoyed by a crowd, making them a favorite choice for holiday parties and family gatherings.
The Christmas Cherry Bars recipe is a perfect example of this trend. Combining a buttery, rich base with the tartness of cherry pie filling, these bars are topped with a crumbly layer that bakes to golden perfection. The optional vanilla glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness, making these bars an irresistible treat that is sure to become a holiday staple in your home. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just getting started, this recipe is simple to follow and delivers impressive results that will delight everyone who tastes them.
The Origin of Christmas Cherry Bars
Dessert bars have a rich history that dates back to the mid-20th century when they became popular as an easy-to-make, shareable treat. Initially, these bars were simple combinations of basic pantry ingredients, designed for convenience during the busy holiday season. Over time, they evolved into a versatile dessert category, with countless variations appearing in cookbooks and family recipes.
Cherry-based desserts, especially those using preserved or canned cherries, have long been associated with holiday cooking. The bright red color and tart flavor of cherries make them a festive choice, symbolizing the warmth and joy of the season. As cherry pie became a staple dessert in American homes, the cherry filling began to be incorporated into other desserts, including bars.
Christmas Cherry Bars likely emerged from the tradition of using fruit fillings in holiday baking, blending the ease of dessert bars with the classic appeal of cherry pie. The combination of a buttery crust, sweet-tart cherry filling, and crumbly topping offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making these bars a beloved holiday treat. Today, they remain a popular choice for those looking to create a delicious and visually appealing dessert that embodies the spirit of Christmas.
Ingredients Overview
Understanding the key ingredients in Christmas Cherry Bars is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Butter: Softened butter is essential as it easily incorporates with sugar, creating a light and fluffy base. The fat in butter adds richness to the bars and helps achieve a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is typically used in this recipe, providing the sweetness that balances the tartness of the cherry filling. The type of sugar used also affects the texture; granulated sugar creates a crisp edge, while brown sugar could add a chewy texture due to its moisture content.
Eggs and Vanilla: Eggs act as a binder, ensuring the ingredients blend well, while also contributing to the richness of the batter. Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, adding a subtle sweetness and aromatic quality that complements the cherries.
All-Purpose Flour and Salt: Flour forms the structure of the bars, while salt enhances the flavors by balancing the sweetness and bringing out the taste of the other ingredients. Using the right proportion of flour is key to maintaining the integrity of the bars without making them too dense or too crumbly.
Cherry Pie Filling: The star of the recipe, cherry pie filling adds a burst of tart, fruity flavor. It’s important to choose a high-quality filling with a good balance of sweetness and tartness, as this will be the defining flavor of the bars.
Optional Ingredients: Variations can include adding nuts for crunch, chocolate chips for extra richness, or even spices like cinnamon for a warm, holiday flavor twist. Substitutions such as gluten-free flour or alternative sweeteners can also be made to cater to dietary preferences.
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare the Pan:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking. You can use butter or a non-stick spray.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream them together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, typically about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a tender base.
3. Adding Eggs and Vanilla:
Add the eggs to the creamed butter and sugar, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with a subtle, sweet aroma that complements the cherry filling.
4. Combining Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. This step ensures that the salt is evenly distributed, which is important for balanced flavor.
5. Mixing the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a tough texture.
6. Preparing the Base Layer:
Spread about 3 cups of the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, forming a smooth, even base layer.
7. Adding the Cherry Filling:
Carefully spread the cherry pie filling over the base layer, ensuring an even distribution of cherries for consistent flavor in every bite.
8. Creating the Top Layer:
Drop the remaining batter by small spoonfuls over the cherry filling, leaving some gaps for the cherries to peek through.
9. Baking and Cooling:
Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares.
10. Tips for Perfect Baking:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the bars tender.
- Use a high-quality cherry pie filling for the best flavor.
The Optional Vanilla Glaze
Ingredients for the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Preparation:
In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. The glaze should be thick but pourable; if it’s too thick, add a little more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.
Alternatives to the Vanilla Glaze:
While the vanilla glaze adds a classic touch, you can experiment with other toppings. A chocolate drizzle can bring a rich, decadent flavor, while a dusting of powdered sugar offers a simple, elegant finish. You might also try a lemon glaze for a citrusy twist that pairs well with the tart cherry filling.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Glaze Consistency:
- Ensure the powdered sugar is sifted to avoid lumps.
- Add milk gradually to control the thickness.
- For a thicker glaze, use less milk; for a thinner drizzle, add more liquid.
- Apply the glaze when the bars are completely cooled to prevent it from melting and soaking in too quickly.
Serving and Presentation
Best Ways to Cut and Serve the Bars:
To achieve clean, even slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. This prevents the cherry filling from smearing and ensures a neat presentation. Cutting the bars into uniform squares or rectangles makes them easy to serve and share.
Creative Presentation Ideas:
For a festive touch, arrange the bars on a holiday-themed platter and garnish with fresh cherries or mint leaves. Pair these bars with other holiday treats like cookies or fudge on a dessert tray for a visually appealing spread. Consider dusting the bars lightly with powdered sugar or drizzling with additional glaze for added flair.
Storing and Packaging for Gifts:
To store the bars, place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be kept at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. For gifting, wrap the bars individually in decorative parchment or wax paper, and place them in festive boxes or tins. Add a personalized tag or ribbon to make the gift extra special.
Variations and Customizations
Other Fruit Fillings to Try:
While cherry is a classic choice, you can experiment with other fruit fillings to suit your taste or seasonal availability. Blueberry or raspberry pie filling adds a rich, berry flavor, while apple pie filling provides a comforting, spiced twist. Each variation brings a unique taste and texture, allowing you to tailor the bars to different occasions or preferences.
Adding Nuts or Chocolate Chips:
For added texture and flavor, consider incorporating chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds into the batter or sprinkled on top. Chocolate chips can also be mixed into the batter or scattered over the cherry filling for a decadent, chocolate-cherry combination. These additions give the bars a delightful crunch or melt-in-your-mouth richness.
Adapting the Recipe for Dietary Preferences:
To make the bars gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains a binder like xanthan gum for proper texture. For a vegan version, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute, and check that the sugar and pie filling are vegan-friendly. These adaptations allow everyone to enjoy this festive treat, regardless of dietary restrictions.
Creative Twists:
Spice up the bars by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the batter for a warm, holiday flavor. Alternatively, experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon in place of vanilla to give the bars a unique twist. A touch of citrus zest can also brighten the flavor, making the bars even more refreshing and festive.
FAQs Section
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries. To substitute, pit and chop the cherries, then cook them with sugar and a bit of cornstarch until they thicken, creating a homemade filling.
How do I store the Christmas Cherry Bars, and how long will they last?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerating them is recommended.
Can these bars be frozen for later use?
Yes, the bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store them in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What can I substitute for vanilla extract if I don’t have any?
You can use almond extract for a different flavor profile, or leave it out if needed. Other options include lemon extract or even a bit of rum or brandy.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make the recipe healthier, consider using whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend, reduce the sugar, or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also use a low-fat butter substitute or applesauce to reduce fat content.
Conclusion
The Christmas Cherry Bars recipe is a delightful blend of rich, buttery crust, tart cherry filling, and a sweet, crumbly topping. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for the holiday season, offering a festive treat that can be customized to suit any palate. Whether you choose to stick with the classic cherry filling or experiment with other fruits, nuts, or flavorings, these bars are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with loved ones during the holidays. The versatility and simplicity of dessert bars make them an ideal choice for both seasoned bakers and beginners. With endless possibilities for variations, these Christmas Cherry Bars are not just a dessert—they’re a celebration of the season, bringing joy and sweetness to any festive occasion.
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Christmas Cherry Bars
Description
These Christmas Cherry Bars are a delightful combination of buttery crust, tart cherry filling, and a sweet crumbly topping, perfect for the holiday season. Simple to prepare, they’re ideal for sharing at festive gatherings or giving as homemade gifts.
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
- 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.
Notes
For the best results, ensure your butter is softened before creaming it with the sugar, and choose a high-quality cherry pie filling for maximum flavor. If desired, you can add a vanilla glaze or experiment with other fruit fillings for a personalized touch.
