Cherry Nut Bars
Chewy cherry nut bars combine sweet cherry pie filling with crunchy pecans and a buttery oatmeal crust, perfect for a sweet snack or dessert everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the flour, oatmeal, sugar, chopped pecans, baking soda, and sweet cream butter in a blender or food processor and mix.
- Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the mixture for topping.
- Press the remaining mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan, evenly.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting walnuts for pecans or using brown sugar instead of white sugar for a richer taste. If you don't have a food processor, you can mix the ingredients by hand, though it will take a bit more effort. Ensure your butter is softened for easier mixing. This recipe can also be adapted for gluten-free diets by using a gluten-free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
These cherry nut bars make a delightful dessert on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider drizzling them with chocolate sauce or serving alongside a fresh fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cherry nut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. To reheat, place them in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Nut Bars contains roughly 458 calories, with 11g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (105% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (65% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 739mg per serving (32% 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 a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a pie filling consistency. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the bars.
What can I substitute for the butter?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Just ensure it's at room temperature for easier mixing.
Can I freeze the cherry nut bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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).