Holiday Cherry Cheese Bars
Holiday Cherry Cheese Bars offer a delightful combination of sweet cherry, creamy cheese, and crunchy nut crust, perfect for festive gatherings and dessert lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 13 x 9 inch pan with butter-flavored Crisco.
- Chop 1/2 cup of nuts coarsely for topping and set aside. Chop remaining 1/2 cup finely.
- In a bowl, combine flour and brown sugar, then cut in Crisco until fine crumbs form.
- Add 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts and coconut to the crumb mixture and mix well.
- Remove 1/2 cup of the mixture and set aside for topping.
- Press the remaining crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting the walnut pieces with pecans or almonds to add a different flavor profile. You can also use unsweetened shredded coconut if you prefer a less sweet taste. Make sure to chop the nuts evenly for consistent texture. If you want to enhance the flavor, a splash of vanilla extract can be mixed into the crumb mixture for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
These Holiday Cherry Cheese Bars are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a platter of Sugar-Free Chocolate Pudding Sandwiches for a sweet contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, place individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warmed through, ensuring they remain moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Cherry Cheese Bars contains roughly 339 calories, with 6g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% 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?
Absolutely! These bars can be prepared a day or two in advance. Just be sure to store them properly in an airtight container to keep them fresh. This makes them a great option for holiday gatherings or potlucks, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.
What can I use instead of Crisco?
If you're looking for a substitute for Crisco, you can use unsalted butter or coconut oil in equal amounts. However, keep in mind that using butter will impart a richer flavor. If you're aiming for a dairy-free option, coconut oil is a great alternative that complements the coconut in the recipe well.
Can I add other fruits to the recipe?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different fruits. Chopped dried cherries or cranberries can be added for a tart contrast. You can also incorporate fresh blueberries or raspberries in place of cherries for a refreshing twist. Just be cautious with the moisture content of fresh fruits.
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).