lCherry Bars

Ingredients:

For the Crust and Topping:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

  • 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Make the crust and topping:
    In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla and almond extracts.
  3. Add the dry ingredients:
    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
  4. Assemble the bars:
    Spread about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. It’s okay if the dough is sticky; you can use a spatula or your fingers to spread it.
  5. Add the cherry filling:
    Evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the dough layer. If using, sprinkle the lemon zest over the cherry filling for added brightness.
  6. Add the topping:
    Drop the remaining dough by spoonfuls over the cherry filling. It’s okay if some of the filling shows through.
  7. Bake:
    Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Prepare the glaze:
    While the bars are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Add just enough milk to achieve a drizzling consistency.
  9. Finish and serve:
    Once the bars have cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top. Cut into squares or bars and serve.
See also  Classic Cherry Delight

Tips:

  • Substitute: You can use different fruit fillings like blueberry or apple if you prefer.
  • Storage: Store the cherry bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
  • For a crunchier topping: Mix in a handful of slivered almonds or chopped pecans with the dough topping before baking.

These cherry bars are a perfect blend of sweet, tart, and buttery flavors, making them a delightful treat for any occasion!

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