Christmas Cherry Bars have a special place in my heart. Growing up in southern England, the holiday season always meant baking with my mum and grandmother, and these bars remind me of those cozy afternoons filled with flour-covered counters and the sweet scent of cherries warming in the oven. Now, living in sunny San Diego with my own little family, these bars have become a festive staple that’s both easy to make and irresistibly comforting. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or just craving a little sweet treat, these bars bring that perfect balance of tart cherry and buttery crumb that feels like a warm hug on a chilly winter day.
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Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cherry Bars
These Christmas Cherry Bars stand out because they strike the perfect harmony between a buttery shortbread base and a vibrant cherry filling. I love how the tartness of the cherries cuts through the richness, making each bite feel fresh and indulgent at once. Plus, they’re incredibly forgiving — a trait I appreciate from years spent experimenting in professional kitchens and at home with my kids. When life gets hectic, these bars are a reliable, no-fuss dessert that still delivers that homemade charm. They’re also wonderfully versatile, perfect for gifting or bringing along to potlucks where you want to impress without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Christmas Cherry Bars
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients, especially when it comes to the cherries. I always reach for good quality jarred or canned tart cherries because their bright flavor holds up beautifully against the buttery crust. Fresh cherries can be lovely, but they often add extra moisture that can make the bars less stable. Butter is another ingredient worth investing in—real, unsalted butter brings that rich, flaky texture I love. Over the years, I’ve learned that simple, quality ingredients make all the difference, especially in straightforward recipes like these.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (21-ounce) jar tart cherry pie filling
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker filling)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: Approximately 280 per serving
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 120mg
Irresistible Christmas Cherry Bars That Will Sweeten Your Holiday Season
Learn how to make delicious Christmas Cherry Bars. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients, especially when it comes to the cherries. I always reach for good quality jarred or canned tart cherries because their bright flavor holds up beautifully against the buttery crust. Fresh cherries can be lovely, but they often add extra moisture that can make the bars less stable. Butter is another ingredient worth investing in—real, unsalted butter brings that rich, flaky texture I love. Over the years, I’ve learned that simple, quality ingredients make all the difference, especially in straightforward recipes like these.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (21-ounce) jar tart cherry pie filling
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker filling)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial for a tender, crumbly crust.
- Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Gradually stir in the flour and salt until the dough just comes together. It will be crumbly but should hold when pressed.
- Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the base. I find using your fingers works best here to get an even layer.
- If you prefer a thicker filling, mix the cornstarch into the cherry pie filling now, then spread it evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle the remaining one-third of the dough over the cherry layer, breaking it up into small chunks. This creates that lovely crumbly topping.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling slightly.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment overhang. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, then cut into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Christmas Cherry Bars
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. This step is crucial for a tender, crumbly crust.
- Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Gradually stir in the flour and salt until the dough just comes together. It will be crumbly but should hold when pressed.
- Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the base. I find using your fingers works best here to get an even layer.
- If you prefer a thicker filling, mix the cornstarch into the cherry pie filling now, then spread it evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle the remaining one-third of the dough over the cherry layer, breaking it up into small chunks. This creates that lovely crumbly topping.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling slightly.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment overhang. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, then cut into squares.
Tips for Making the Best Christmas Cherry Bars
Getting these bars just right is mostly about technique and ingredient quality. From my years in restaurant kitchens and home cooking with my kids, I’ve learned that small details can make a big difference.
- Use room-temperature butter for easier creaming and a lighter texture.
- Don’t overwork the dough once you add the flour; this keeps the bars tender, not tough.
- Press the crust firmly and evenly to prevent it from crumbling when sliced.
- If you only have fresh cherries, pit and cook them down slightly to reduce moisture before using in the filling.
- Make sure the bars are fully cooled before cutting to keep clean edges.
- Feel free to swap tart cherry filling for raspberry or cranberry for a seasonal twist.
With these tips, you’ll create a festive treat that’s both beautiful and delicious. Learn more: festive holiday baking recipes Learn more: Irresistible Almond Banket Bars You Need to Try Today
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dessert is incredibly versatile and works beautifully for all your holiday occasions. Whether it’s a casual family afternoon or a festive gathering with friends, Christmas Cherry Bars fit right in. I often serve them alongside a cup of spiced tea or a rich hot chocolate, which my kids adore—especially when their pancakes are still on their mind!
- Pair with a warm mulled wine or a glass of sparkling apple cider for adult gatherings.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the experience.
- Try sprinkling toasted almonds or a pinch of cinnamon on top for extra warmth.
- Perfect for gifting – wrap bars in parchment and tie with twine for a charming homemade present.
For me, these bars are a delicious bridge between tradition and creativity, perfect for sharing stories and smiles around the table.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to enjoying these bars days after baking. I often make a batch ahead for busy holiday weeks, and I’ve found they keep their charm well when stored right.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 2 months.
- If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in a low oven (300°F) for 10 minutes to refresh texture.
- A quick 10-second zap in the microwave can bring back that just-baked warmth, but avoid overheating to keep the crumbly topping intact.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Christmas Cherry Bars?
The main ingredients for Christmas Cherry Bars include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Christmas Cherry Bars?
The total time to make Christmas Cherry Bars includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Christmas Cherry Bars ahead of time?
Yes, Christmas Cherry Bars can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Christmas Cherry Bars?
Christmas Cherry Bars pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Christmas Cherry Bars suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Christmas Cherry Bars may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Christmas Cherry Bars are one of those recipes that feel like a warm, familiar story told over and over again, each time with a little new twist. I hope you find as much joy in baking and sharing them as I do with my family. Please let me know how your bars turn out or if you’ve added your own special touch—I love hearing from you!
