Cherry Bar Cookies
Cherry Bar Cookies feature a delightful combination of buttery batter and sweet cherry filling, offering a nostalgic treat perfect for gatherings or casual snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread 2/3 of the batter in a lightly greased 9 x 12-inch pan.
- Spread the entire can of cherry pie filling on top of the batter.
- Drop the remaining batter by teaspoons or pipe with a cake decorator on top of the cherry filling.
- Bake at 325°F (162°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you're out of cherry pie filling, you can substitute with homemade cherry compote or even another fruit filling like blueberry. Ensure to spread the batter evenly for a uniform bake. Adding a pinch of almond extract can enhance the cherry flavor beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
These cherry bar cookies are delightful on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence. They also pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For special occasions, consider serving them alongside Sweetheart Fudge Pie for a dessert spread that will impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cherry bar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes until just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Bar Cookies contains roughly 474 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 588mg per serving (26% 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 cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you'll need to cook them down with sugar and a thickening agent like cornstarch to create a filling consistency similar to cherry pie filling. This will enhance the flavor and texture of your bars.
What can I do if the batter is too thick?
If your batter seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk or water to loosen it up. This can help it spread more easily over the cherry filling, ensuring a nice, even top layer.
How can I make these cookies more visually appealing?
To enhance the presentation, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the top once cooled. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. Adding a few fresh cherries on top before serving can make for a beautiful garnish.
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).