Christmas Cherry Bars: Festive, Easy, and Perfect for Holiday Gatherings
The holiday season calls for bright, festive, and shareable treats that are as joyful to look at as they are to eat. Christmas Cherry Bars are one of those holiday desserts that add a pop of color and flavor to any table. With a buttery crust, a sweet-tart cherry filling, and a crumbly topping drizzled with vanilla glaze, these bars are perfect for family gatherings, office parties, or gift exchanges. If you’re looking to add even more easy, holiday-inspired desserts to your collection, try our no-bake pumpkin cheesecake, a deliciously simple addition to your festive table.
What Makes Christmas Cherry Bars a Holiday Favorite?
Cherry bars have become a staple in many holiday kitchens due to their bright red filling and nostalgic flavor. The combination of a crumbly crust, rich cherry filling, and vanilla glaze creates a dessert that looks as festive as it tastes. Plus, they’re simple to make and easy to serve in squares, making them ideal for holiday gatherings or potluck events. For another easy, fruit-filled dessert, try our easy apple hand pies—a hit with kids and adults alike!
Essential Ingredients for Christmas Cherry Bars
Creating Christmas Cherry Bars requires just a few basic ingredients to deliver a deliciously festive flavor:
- Cherry Filling: Canned cherry pie filling is the most convenient option and gives these bars a bright, holiday-ready look.
- Butter: Provides richness to the crust and topping.
- Almond Extract: This adds a subtle, nutty aroma that enhances the cherry flavor.
- Flour and Sugar: Form the base of the crust and crumbly topping.
- Vanilla Glaze: A simple drizzle made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for added sweetness and decoration.
For another festive and unique flavor, you might also enjoy our pistachio shortbread cookies, which bring a nutty, crunchy contrast to your holiday dessert platter.
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
1. Preparing the Crust
- Ingredients: Flour, sugar, butter.
- Instructions:
- Combine flour, sugar, and melted butter in a mixing bowl.
- Press the mixture evenly into a greased baking dish to form a firm crust.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden.
2. Adding the Cherry Filling
- Ingredients: Canned cherry pie filling.
- Instructions:
- Spread an even layer of cherry pie filling over the partially baked crust.
- Use a spatula to distribute the cherries evenly across the crust.
3. Preparing the Crumble Topping
- Ingredients: Remaining flour, sugar, butter, almond extract.
- Instructions:
- Combine flour, sugar, and softened butter with a splash of almond extract.
- Sprinkle the crumbly mixture over the cherry filling, covering the surface evenly.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
4. Drizzling with Vanilla Glaze
- Ingredients: Powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract.
- Instructions:
- Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cherry bars for a beautiful finish.
Tips for Perfect Christmas Cherry Bars
To make the best Christmas Cherry Bars, consider these tips:
- Chill the Crust: Pre-chilling the crust can help achieve a firmer texture.
- Drain Excess Liquid: If your cherry filling is too liquidy, let it drain briefly before adding it to the crust.
- Don’t Overbake: Bake just until the topping is golden; overbaking can dry out the bars.
Variations of Christmas Cherry Bars
While traditional cherry bars are always delicious, here are a few creative twists:
- Cherry-Almond Bars: Add sliced almonds to the topping for a crunchy texture.
- Cherry Cheesecake Bars: Spread a thin layer of cream cheese mixture over the crust before adding the cherry filling for a creamy surprise.
- Gluten-Free Cherry Bars: Substitute gluten-free flour to make this dessert accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.
- White Chocolate Cherry Bars: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the glaze for added sweetness and a festive touch.
For another twist on holiday treats, explore our easy apple hand pies—another fruit-filled delight.
Serving Suggestions for Christmas Cherry Bars
Serve Christmas Cherry Bars in a variety of ways for any occasion:
- As a Standalone Dessert: Perfect for holiday gatherings and potlucks.
- Paired with Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or almond ice cream for a classic dessert combo.
- On a Dessert Platter: Mix and match with other holiday cookies and bars for a beautiful festive display.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Cherry bars are ideal for making ahead and storing:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to five days.
- Freezing: Place in single layers separated by parchment paper and freeze for up to three months.
- Reheating: Serve cold or reheat briefly in the oven to restore crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?
Yes, but cook them down with sugar and cornstarch first to achieve a similar texture.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can use a plant-based butter alternative, but note that texture may vary slightly.
Is there a way to make a low-sugar version?
Use a low-sugar pie filling and reduce sugar in the crust and topping.
Can I add a different fruit filling?
Absolutely! Blueberry, raspberry, or apple fillings also work well.
Nutritional Information and Health Tips
Enjoy Christmas Cherry Bars in moderation with these nutritional insights:
- Calories: Approximately 250 per bar.
- Reduce Sugar: Use reduced-sugar fillings or glaze.
- Gluten-Free Adaptations: Easily substitute gluten-free flour for those with dietary needs.
Conclusion: Celebrate the Holidays with Christmas Cherry Bars
Christmas Cherry Bars are a delightful addition to any holiday dessert lineup. Easy to make and visually festive, these bars are perfect for gatherings, gift trays, or simply enjoying with family. For more holiday baking inspiration, check out our full collection of holiday treats at Exorecipes.
