Cherry Bars
Cherry Bars are a delightful dessert that combines a buttery crust with a sweet and chewy cherry filling, enhanced by the richness of coconut and nuts. Perfect for gatherings or as an afternoon treat, these bars offer a burst of flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix butter, 1 cup flour, and 3 tablespoons brown sugar with a pastry cutter and spread in a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake for 12 minutes at 350°.
- Beat the eggs.
- Add the remaining ingredients and mix well.
- Spread the mixture on the crust.
- Bake at 350° for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the butter before mixing it with the flour and sugar. If you want a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds. You can also substitute half of the coconut with oats for added texture. To enhance sweetness, drizzle a bit of honey over the top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry bars are delightful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For a fun twist, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, or serve alongside a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. Explore more American recipes for delicious dessert ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cherry bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place individual bars in the microwave for about 15 seconds or until warm, or enjoy them cold for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Bars contains roughly 362 calories, with 4g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of calcium (12% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% 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 canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Just pit and chop them before adding to the mixture. You might want to adjust the sugar slightly, depending on the tartness of the cherries. Fresh cherries will also provide a vibrant flavor and texture in the bars.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a mashed banana for each egg. Alternatively, a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) can also work well. These options will help maintain moisture and binding in the bars.
Can I freeze cherry bars for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the cherry bars cool completely, then cut them into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
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).