Cherry Date Holiday Bars
Cherry Date Holiday Bars are sweet, nutty treats with chewy dates, candied cherries, and coconut, perfect for festive gatherings or as a delightful homemade gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except cherries in a bowl.
- Place the mixture in a buttered pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.
- Remove from oven and stir well.
- Cool until manageable.
- Shape the mixture into balls around each candied cherry.
- Roll the balls in confectioners sugar and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, substitute the chopped nuts with rolled oats or puffed rice for added texture. Make sure to chop the dates finely for even distribution throughout the bars. If you prefer a sweeter treat, you can increase the sugar slightly or add a drizzle of honey over the finished balls. Using fresh cherries can enhance the flavor, but ensure they are pitted before incorporating them.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are perfect for holiday gatherings and can be served as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. They also pair beautifully with a fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of shredded coconut or a few extra candied cherries on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Cherry Date Holiday Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last for up to two weeks. To reheat, allow them to come to room temperature or gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to maintain their soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Date Holiday Bars contains roughly 531 calories, with 5g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of potassium (14% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value), and calcium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1921mg per serving (84% 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 make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape the balls and roll them in confectioners' sugar before serving to maintain freshness. This makes them an excellent option for holiday prep.
What can I use instead of candied cherries?
If candied cherries are not available, you can substitute with dried cranberries or chopped fresh cherries for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness if using fresh cherries, as they are less sweet than their candied counterparts.
How do I ensure the bars hold their shape?
To help the bars hold their shape, make sure to cool the mixture completely before shaping. If the mixture is too sticky, you can lightly dust your hands with confectioners' sugar while forming the balls to prevent sticking. This will help maintain a neat appearance.
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).