Maraschino Cherry Bars
Sweet maraschino cherry bars with a buttery crust, perfect for parties or casual gatherings, offering a delightful combination of crunch and fruity sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the flour, sugar, and margarine until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into an ungreased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the margarine with unsalted butter. If you're looking for a lighter option, try using coconut oil instead. Add a pinch of salt to enhance sweetness, and feel free to mix in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture. Keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary; you want them golden but not overbaked.
Serving Suggestions
These Maraschino Cherry Bars make a delightful snack or dessert. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing, or alongside a cup of coffee for an afternoon treat. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh fruit salad or a light yogurt for a balanced meal. Consider browsing more American recipes for complementary dishes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Maraschino Cherry Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to warm it slightly before serving. This helps to revive the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maraschino Cherry Bars contains roughly 623 calories, with 13g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value) and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 maraschino cherries?
While fresh cherries can be used, they will change the texture and moisture of the bars. If using fresh, consider pitting and chopping them, and you may need to adjust baking time to ensure they cook properly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use one that includes xanthan gum, or add it separately if your blend does not include it, to help with the texture.
How can I add more flavor to the bars?
You can enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to the dough. Additionally, mixing in some lemon or orange zest can provide a lovely citrus note that complements the sweetness of the cherries.
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).