Cherry-Walnut Bars
Sweet cherry-walnut bars feature a buttery crust, topped with maraschino cherries, walnuts, and coconut, then frosted with a sugary glaze. Perfect for snacking or dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine softened butter and powdered sugar with enough cherry liquid to create a spreadable frosting.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars.
- Sprinkle with coconut, if desired, for added flavor and texture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar in the base mixture. If you don't have maraschino cherries, diced fresh cherries can work as a substitute, though they may alter the moisture level slightly. Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with the sugars. If you're looking for a flavor boost, a hint of almond extract can enhance the cherry taste.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delightful as a sweet treat for afternoon tea or a picnic dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For an added crunch, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also sprinkle some extra chopped walnuts on top for garnish before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cherry-Walnut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry-Walnut Bars contains roughly 1025 calories, with 12g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2333mg per serving (101% 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds if you prefer. Both options will give a nice texture and flavor to the bars. Just make sure to chop them appropriately so they blend well into the mixture.
What can I do if my frosting is too thick?
If your frosting turns out too thick, simply add a little more cherry liquid or milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. This will help create a smooth, spreadable frosting that complements the bars perfectly.
How can I make these bars more festive for a holiday event?
To make these Cherry-Walnut Bars more festive, consider adding a sprinkle of red and green sugar on top of the frosting or incorporating holiday spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter. These small touches can elevate the dessert for special occasions.
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).