Christmas Cherry Bars

Name: Christmas Cherry Bars: A Festive Treat You Can't Miss!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup cherry pie filling; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Posted on November 27, 2025

Sweet Treats

Introduction to Christmas Cherry Bars

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself searching for delightful treats that bring joy to my family. That’s where these Christmas Cherry Bars come in! They’re not just a dessert; they’re a festive hug in a pan. With their buttery crust and sweet cherry filling, they’re perfect for busy days when you want to impress loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, they’re a hit at gatherings, making them a must-have for your holiday baking list. Trust me, once you try these bars, they’ll become a cherished tradition in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cherry Bars

These Christmas Cherry Bars are a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. They come together in just about 50 minutes, making them a quick solution for holiday baking. The combination of sweet cherries and a buttery crust creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, they’re easy to make, so you can whip them up even on your busiest days. Who doesn’t love a festive treat that’s both simple and delicious?

Ingredients for Christmas Cherry Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Christmas Cherry Bars. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your crust, providing structure and a tender bite.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter adds richness and flavor, making the crust melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bars and helps achieve that lovely golden color when baked.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness of the cherries.

Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the bars rise slightly, giving them a light texture.
Cherry pie filling: The star of the show! It brings a burst of sweet and tart flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Almond extract: A splash of this adds a lovely nutty aroma, enhancing the cherry flavor beautifully.

Powdered sugar: For dusting on top, it adds a festive touch and a hint of sweetness.

For a little extra flair, consider adding chopped nuts or shredded coconut to the dough. These optional ingredients can elevate the texture and flavor, making your bars even more special. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Remember, the exact quantities are listed at the bottom of the article for easy printing!

How to Make Christmas Cherry Bars

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Christmas Cherry Bars! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a festive treat that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your bars bake evenly. If you skip this, the bars might not rise properly, leaving you with a dense dessert instead of the light, fluffy treat you want.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is essential for achieving the right texture. It incorporates air into the butter, which helps your bars rise beautifully. Plus, it smells heavenly!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, add the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is just combined. The flour provides structure, while the baking powder gives your bars that lovely lift. The salt enhances the sweetness, making every bite a flavor explosion.

Step 4: Prepare the Base

Now, take about two-thirds of the dough and press it into the bottom of a greased 9×9 inch baking pan. Make sure it’s evenly spread out. This base is the foundation of your bars, so it’s important to get it right. A well-pressed base will hold the cherry filling perfectly!

Step 5: Add Cherry Filling

Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the dough. This is where the magic happens! The sweet and tart cherries will infuse the bars with flavor, making them irresistible. Don’t skimp on this step; a generous layer of filling is key to deliciousness.

Step 6: Top with Remaining Dough

Now, drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the cherry filling. It doesn’t have to be perfect; a rustic look adds charm! This topping will create a delightful contrast with the cherry filling, giving you that perfect bite of sweetness and buttery goodness.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for!

Step 8: Cool and Dust

Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan for a bit. This helps them set properly. After they’ve cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for that festive touch. It’s the final flourish that makes these Christmas Cherry Bars truly special!

Tips for Success

Make sure your butter is softened for easy creaming.
Use a spatula to spread the cherry filling evenly for consistent flavor.

Don’t overmix the dough; it should be just combined for the best texture.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Equipment Needed

9×9 inch baking pan: A square pan is ideal, but an 8×8 inch pan works too.
Mixing bowls: Use any size you have on hand; just make sure they’re sturdy.
Spatula: A rubber spatula is great for mixing and spreading.

Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy, but you can use a kitchen scale if preferred.
Cooling rack: If you don’t have one, a plate will do just fine!

Variations of Christmas Cherry Bars

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

Coconut Twist: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical flair that pairs beautifully with cherries.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for an indulgent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.

Berry Medley: Swap out cherry pie filling for a mix of blueberries and raspberries for a colorful and tangy variation.

Serving Suggestions for Christmas Cherry Bars

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of warm and cold.
Serve alongside a steaming cup of hot cocoa or spiced apple cider for a cozy treat.

For a festive presentation, arrange bars on a decorative platter and sprinkle with extra powdered sugar.
Top with whipped cream and fresh cherries for an elegant touch.

FAQs about Christmas Cherry Bars

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Absolutely! If you have fresh cherries, you can make your own filling. Just pit and slice them, then cook with a bit of sugar and cornstarch until thickened. It’s a great way to enjoy seasonal fruit!

How do I store leftover Christmas Cherry Bars?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them, but they’re best enjoyed fresh!

Can I freeze Christmas Cherry Bars?

Yes, you can freeze these bars! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Thaw them in the fridge before serving.

What can I substitute for almond extract?

If you don’t have almond extract, vanilla extract works perfectly as a substitute. It will still add a lovely flavor to your Christmas Cherry Bars!

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the bars a day in advance. Just bake, cool, and store them in an airtight container. They’ll be ready to impress your guests when you need them!

Final Thoughts

Making Christmas Cherry Bars is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with loved ones. The aroma of cherries and buttery crust fills your home, wrapping you in a warm embrace of holiday spirit. These bars are not only delicious but also a reminder of the simple pleasures in life. Whether you’re serving them at a festive gathering or enjoying them with a cup of tea, they bring smiles and laughter to the table. So, gather your family, roll up your sleeves, and let the magic of Christmas Cherry Bars fill your home with love!