Christmas Cherry Bars: A Festive Holiday Treat 🎄🍒

Nothing says Christmas quite like a festive dessert that’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for sharing. Christmas Cherry Bars check all those boxes and more. With a buttery crust, a layer of tart cherry filling, and a crumbly topping, these bars are sure to be a holiday favorite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a treat to gift, these bars make the perfect addition to your holiday dessert table.

For other easy holiday desserts, check out our Easy Apple Hand Pies for a quick, hand-held treat that’s just as delightful.

Ingredients for Christmas Cherry Bars

To make these delicious cherry bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Cherry Pie Filling: The main flavor component, providing a sweet and tangy taste.
• All-Purpose Flour: For creating a light, crumbly texture.
• Butter: Adds richness to the crust and topping.
• Granulated Sugar: For sweetness in both the crust and topping.
• Eggs: Helps bind the crust and adds richness.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavors and adds warmth to the recipe.
• Optional Add-Ins: Chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for added texture and flavor.

If you love fruity dessert bars, our Raspberry Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust are another perfect option for a festive, flavorful treat.

Preparing the Base and Topping

1. Creating the Crust
   • Combine flour, sugar, and softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Press two-thirds of this mixture firmly into a greased baking pan to form the crust.
   • Set aside the remaining crumb mixture for the topping.
2. Making the Cherry Layer
   • Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the crust, ensuring an even layer for the perfect bite in every bar.
   • If desired, sprinkle nuts on top of the cherry layer for added crunch.
3. Adding the Topping
   • Crumble the reserved mixture over the cherry layer, covering the cherries but allowing some to peek through.
   • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation

1. Cutting and Serving
   • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting for clean, defined edges.
   • Slice into squares or triangles for a festive look.
2. Garnishing Ideas
   • Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy, holiday appearance.
   • Add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of white chocolate for extra richness.

For a no-bake holiday dessert option, our No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake is another excellent choice for festive gatherings.

Creative Variations for Christmas Cherry Bars

1. Chocolate Cherry Bars
   • Add chocolate chips to the crumb mixture or drizzle melted chocolate over the bars after they cool for a chocolate-cherry combination.
2. Nutty Cherry Bars
   • Incorporate chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the topping for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
3. Tropical Cherry Bars
   • Add shredded coconut to the topping for a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with the tart cherries.

Storage and Shelf Life Tips

• Refrigeration: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Freezing: Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries if you prefer. Simply cook them down with a little sugar and cornstarch until they become thick and syrupy, similar to pie filling.

How do I prevent the bars from becoming soggy?

Ensure the bars are fully baked and allow them to cool completely before cutting. Storing them in an airtight container also helps maintain their texture.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking.

How long can I store the bars at room temperature?

These bars are best stored in the refrigerator, especially if you plan to keep them for more than a day. They can stay at room temperature for a few hours, making them ideal for parties and gatherings.

Conclusion

Christmas Cherry Bars are a festive, flavorful addition to any holiday dessert spread. With a buttery crust, tart cherry filling, and crumbly topping, they capture the holiday spirit in each bite. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday gathering or packaging them up as gifts, these bars are sure to be a hit.

Enjoy experimenting with these variations, and don’t forget to explore our other festive treats like Raspberry Lemon Bars with Shortbread Crust and No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake for more holiday dessert ideas!