Cherry Almond Bars

Cherry Almond Bars are a delightful dessert combining the rich flavors of almond and sweet cherries. With a buttery base and a luscious cherry filling, these bars are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the almond extract, salt, and eggs. Mix well until fully combined.
4. Gradually add the flour, mixing until the batter is smooth.
5. Spread 3 cups of the batter into the prepared pan evenly.
6. Top the batter with the cherry pie filling, spreading it out evenly.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter on top of the cherry filling.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
9. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 12 and has a total preparation and cooking time of approximately 1 hour.

Variations

• Fruit Filling: Substitute cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings like blueberry, raspberry, or peach for a different flavor.
• Nuts: Add chopped almonds or walnuts to the batter for added texture and flavor.
• Frosting: Drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk for an extra sweet touch.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place individual bars in the microwave for a few seconds until warm.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
   Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but you’ll need to cook them down with sugar and cornstarch to create a filling consistency.
2. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
   You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.
3. Can I freeze these bars?
   Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
4. How do I know when the bars are done?
   They should be golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
5. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   Yes, margarine can be used, but it may affect the flavor and texture slightly.
6. How can I enhance the almond flavor?
   You can increase the almond extract to 1.5 teaspoons for a stronger almond taste.
7. What can I serve these bars with?
   They pair well with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
8. Are these bars suitable for a potluck?
   Absolutely! They’re easy to cut into squares and transport.
9. Can I add spices like cinnamon to the batter?
   Yes, a pinch of cinnamon can add a warm flavor, complementing the cherries nicely.
10. How do I prevent the filling from making the bars soggy?
    Make sure to drain the cherry pie filling well before adding it to the batter.

Conclusion

Cherry Almond Bars are a delectable treat that balances the sweetness of cherries with the nutty flavor of almonds. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, these bars are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy them as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack anytime!

Print