CHERRY BARS FOR A CROWD

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There’s something utterly delightful about a dessert that not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning. These Cherry Bars for a Crowd bring together the vibrant colors and flavors of cherries with a soft cookie crust, creating a treat that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving something sweet, this easy-to-make dessert is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll adore these cherry bars for their simplicity and ability to serve a large group with minimal effort. The combination of the buttery cookie crust, luscious cherry pie filling, and the sweet vanilla glaze is irresistible. Plus, the recipe is versatile; you can swap the cherry filling for another fruit like blueberries, and the addition of almond extract gives it a unique twist that perfectly complements the cherry flavor.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Stand mixer
• Jelly roll pan (12×17 inches)
• Aluminum foil
• Nonstick spray
• Wire rack
• Whisk

Ingredients

For the Bars:

• 1 1/2 cups butter, softened
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 5 large eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract
• 5 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 cans (21 oz.) cherry pie filling

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup confectioner’s sugar
• 3 tablespoons milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
2. Line a jelly roll pan with aluminum foil and spray with nonstick spray. Set aside.
3. In the bowl of your stand mixer, cream together the butter and sugar for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add salt, eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract, stirring until fully incorporated.
5. Mix in the flour and baking powder until just combined.
6. Reserve 1 3/4 cups of the dough.
7. Spread or press the remaining dough into the prepared baking pan.
8. Top with cherry pie filling.
9. Drop small pieces of the reserved dough over the cherry filling.
10. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until golden brown.
11. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
12. For the glaze, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and milk until smooth and drizzle over the cooled bars.
13. Cut into 35 squares and serve.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the butter is softened for easier mixing.
• Don’t overmix the dough once you add the flour to keep the bars tender.
• Let the bars cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.

Additional Tips and Variations

For an extra creamy twist, consider mixing cream cheese with sugar and an egg to spread over the bottom crust before adding the cherry filling. This layer adds a rich, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the cherries.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While specific nutritional information can vary, these bars are a delightful treat to enjoy in moderation. A serving provides a blend of carbohydrates, fats, and sugars, offering a sweet indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you’ll need to cook them down with some sugar and cornstarch to create a filling-like consistency.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars keep well in an airtight container for several days. They can also be frozen and thawed before serving.

What other fruits can I use?

Blueberry, strawberry, or apple pie fillings are great alternatives to cherry.

Conclusion

If you’re searching for a dessert that combines ease of preparation with impressive results, these Cherry Bars for a Crowd are the perfect choice. Their festive appearance and delightful flavor make them a standout at any gathering. Give them a try and share your experience—a sweet adventure awaits!

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