Charming Cherry Bars
Charming Cherry Bars are a delightful treat combining the sweetness of candied cherries, the richness of butter, and the crunch of nuts, all nestled in a buttery crust. Perfect for gatherings or as a special dessert, these bars are sure to please cherry lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift 1 cup flour and powdered sugar.
- Dot in butter.
- Press into 11 x 17-inch pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes at 350°.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt. You can also use almond extract instead of vanilla for an interesting twist. If you don't have candied cherries, dried cherries or cranberries can work as a substitute, though they will provide a different texture. Ensure you sift the flour to avoid lumps in the batter.
Serving Suggestions
These Charming Cherry Bars are delightful on their own but can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a charming afternoon treat. For a complete dessert spread, consider serving alongside a slice of New England Pumpkin Pie or Peanut Butter Cake (Low Calorie-160 Per Slice).
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Charming Cherry Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze the bars; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Charming Cherry Bars contains roughly 255 calories, with 1g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 773mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of candied ones?
Fresh cherries can be used, but they will require additional sugar to balance the tartness. You may also need to reduce the overall moisture in the recipe slightly, as fresh cherries contain more water than candied cherries. Consider mixing in a bit of cornstarch to help absorb excess moisture.
What can I use instead of nuts?
If you want to make this recipe nut-free, you can simply omit the nuts altogether or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. For an extra crunch, consider adding some granola or crushed pretzels for a different texture.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them as they bake to avoid overcooking, which can lead to a dry texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).