Summer is the perfect time to indulge in fresh, seasonal fruits like cherries, and this Ultimate Cherry Bars recipe is a must-try for any dessert lover. Cherries offer a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness, making them ideal for creating rich, comforting desserts. This recipe features a buttery crust, a generous layer of cherry pie filling, and a crunchy almond topping, all finished with a sweet, creamy icing. It’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The best part? You can use pantry staples and even substitute fresh cherries with canned cherry filling or other fruits like blueberries or strawberries for a versatile treat. Whether you’re hosting a last-minute gathering or simply craving a homemade dessert, these Cherry Bars are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
Crust:
½ cup butter, softened
½ cup shortening
1¾ cups sugar
1½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 cups all-purpose flour
Filling:
2 21-ounce cans cherry pie filling (or fresh cherries)
½ cup sliced almonds (optional)
Icing:
1½ cups confectioner’s sugar
¼ teaspoon vanilla or almond extract
3 – 4 teaspoons milk
Preparation:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, beat butter and shortening with an electric mixer on medium speed for 30 seconds.
3. Add sugar, baking powder, and salt; mix until combined, scraping the bowl occasionally.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.
5. Mix in flour until just combined.
6. Reserve 1½ cups of dough. Spread the remaining dough in a 15x10x1-inch baking pan.
7. Bake for 12 minutes. Spread cherry pie filling over the crust, then spoon reserved dough into small mounds on top.
8. Sprinkle with sliced almonds (if using) and bake for 30 more minutes or until the top is light brown.
9. Cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Drizzle with icing and cool completely.
10. For the icing, mix confectioner’s sugar and extract, then add milk until smooth and drizzle-able.
Enjoy this easy cherry bar recipe that’s perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you need a sweet, fruity dessert!
