How to prepare it

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, blend the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one by one, continuing to beat well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together. Gradually fold this dry mix into the wet ingredients until combined.
5. Spread two-thirds of the batter evenly in the baking dish. Add cherry pie filling on top, then drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the cherries.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, until golden brown. Allow to cool before glazing.
7. For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bars.
8. Slice into squares and serve.

Best ways to enjoy it

These Christmas Cherry Bars are heavenly on their own, but you can elevate the experience by pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a lovely dessert alongside a cup of hot cocoa or spiced cider. For a festive touch, sprinkle some holiday-themed sprinkles on top of the glaze before serving!

How to store

To keep your Christmas Cherry Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you’d like to freeze any leftovers, simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and they’ll last up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

Tips for success

• Ensure your butter is at room temperature for the best creaming results.
• Don’t overmix the batter; folding until just combined will keep your bars tender and light.
• If you’re short on time, consider using a homemade cherry filling for an extra flavor boost!
• Feel free to experiment with different extracts—here’s where you can make them your own!

Creative twists

Want to add a personal touch to your Christmas Cherry Bars? Try swapping in different pie fillings like apple or mixed berries. For a richer flavor, incorporate a layer of cream cheese mixed with powdered sugar before adding the cherry filling. You could also sprinkle in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor!

Common questions

What is the prep time for Christmas Cherry Bars?

The prep time is approximately 15 minutes, with an additional 35-40 minutes for baking.

Can I substitute the cherries?

Absolutely! You can use any fruit filling you like, such as raspberry, blackberry, or peach.

How do I ensure my bars bake evenly?

Make sure your oven is preheated and avoid opening the oven door too frequently during baking, as this can cause fluctuations in temperature.

If you’re looking to sprinkle some holiday cheer into your baking this season, give these Christmas Cherry Bars a try! They combine simplicity, flavor, and festive fun, making them a seasonal must-have.

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I got this recipe from my mom last Christmas and ended up making three whole batches! I loved it when I was younger, and everyone still devours it. I always thought Aunt Bill was some far-off relative… Gingerbread Cookies Soft Italian Christmas Cookies Christmas Dirt Cake Christmas Eggnog Bread “I make this every Christmas and literally have to make it in the dead of the night and then hide it from my family if I want any of it to make it out of the house! Hahaha. Self control just doesn’t exist!”