When it comes to dessert, few things can rival the vibrant charm of cherry bars. These delightful treats promise a burst of sweet-tart cherry flavor, all wrapped in a buttery, crumbly crust that dances on your taste buds. Picture this: a sunny afternoon, the warm aroma of baked cherries wafting through your kitchen, teasing your senses and making your mouth water.
Cherry bars are not just a dessert; they’re an experience. If you’re after something that can elevate a picnic or a family gathering, these bars have got you covered. Trust me; once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked on their irresistible balance of flavors.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These cherry bars are incredibly easy to make, so you’ll impress friends without breaking a sweat
- The flavor is an exquisite mix of sweet and tart, making each bite unforgettable
- Visually, they are stunning with their bright red filling peeking through golden crumbs
- Enjoy them as dessert or snack—these bars are perfect for any occasion!
I remember the first time I made cherry bars for my family—my kids’ eyes lit up like it was Christmas morning when they took their first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Cherries: Use ripe cherries for the best flavor; pitting them yourself adds freshness and fun.
Granulated Sugar: A must for sweetness; adjust based on your preference for tartness.
All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base; sift it for a lighter texture if desired.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness in the crust.
Baking Powder: A little leavening agent to help the crust rise nicely.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors beautifully.
Eggs: They bind everything together and add richness to the filling.
Lemon Juice: A splash brightens the flavors and balances the sweetness of cherries.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cherry Bars
Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your ingredients. Your kitchen will be filled with delicious anticipation soon!
Prepare Cherry Filling: In a bowl, mix pitted cherries with sugar and lemon juice until well combined. Let them sit; this helps release those lovely juices.
Make Crust Mixture: In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Then mix in melted butter until crumbly—think sandy beaches but tastier.
Assemble Crust: Press about two-thirds of the crust mixture into a greased baking dish evenly. It should look like it’s ready for some cherry action on top!
Add Cherry Layer: Pour the prepared cherry filling over the crust gently, spreading it evenly. It’s like laying down a beautiful red carpet for your guests!
Top with Remaining Crust: Crumble the remaining crust mixture over the cherries generously. This creates that lovely crumbly topping we all adore!
Bake: Pop it in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell divine at this point!
Cool & Serve: Allow cooling completely before slicing; patience is key here! Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best experience.
Enjoy these cherry bars at picnics, family gatherings, or even as an afternoon snack—they’re sure to become a favorite!
You Must Know
- Cherry bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion
- The sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting to taste a piece
- With a delightful blend of tart cherries and buttery crust, these bars are sure to impress
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F while you prepare the crust. This ensures even baking and a perfectly golden finish on your cherry bars.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cherries for your favorite fruit, like blueberries or raspberries. A sprinkle of lemon zest adds an extra zing that elevates the flavor profile!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cherry bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat in the oven briefly to regain that delightful crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best texture, ensure your butter is cold when making the crust
- Avoid overmixing your batter for fluffier bars
- Use fresh cherries for more vibrant flavors and colors in your dessert
Nothing beats that moment when I shared my first batch of cherry bars with friends at a picnic. They devoured them, leaving me with only crumbs and lots of compliments!
FAQ
Can I use frozen cherries for cherry bars?
Yes, frozen cherries work well; just thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
How do I know when my cherry bars are done?
The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Can I make cherry bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! They can be made a day in advance and stored properly for freshness.
Cherry Bars
Cherry bars are a delightful dessert that combines the sweet-tart flavor of ripe cherries with a buttery, crumbly crust. Perfect for picnics or family gatherings, these bars are not only visually stunning but also easy to prepare. With every bite, you’ll experience an unforgettable mix of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this irresistible treat that captures the essence of cherry season.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine pitted cherries with 3/4 cup sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add melted butter and stir until crumbly.
- Press two-thirds of the crust mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Spread cherry filling evenly over the crust.
- Crumble remaining crust mixture on top of cherries.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown. Let cool completely before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (70g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For added zest, incorporate lemon zest into the cherry filling. Feel free to substitute cherries with blueberries or raspberries for different flavor profiles.
