Introduction:
Try out our delicious Cherry Bars recipe and enjoy the sweetness and sourness of cherries! These bars are perfect for those who crave sweets or want to make an impression on their guests during their gatherings. They will soon become your go-to dessert, with a buttery crust and a delicious cherry filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter
– 1/4 powdered sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 160mg bicarbonate of soda
– Ic copped cherries (fresh or frozen)
– Additional powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan measuring nine by nine inches or if you prefer easier removal, line it with parchment paper.
Cream softened butter, powdered sugar until light and fluffy in mixer bowl.
Gradually add flour to mixture of butter while mixing until well blended. Press mixture firmly into bottom of prepared baking pan to form crust.
Bake crust in preheated oven for twenty minutes fifteen minutes or until light golden brown.
While the crust is baking, prepare the filling; beat eggs in another mixing bowl until frothy and light. Gradually add granulated sugar, almond extract, salt, and baking powder blending well after each addition.
6. Gradually mix the chopped cherries in the batter until they are evenly mixed.
7. Pour the cherry filling over the partially baked crust and spread it out into an even layer.
8. Place back in oven and bake for another 25-30 minutes or until the filling has set and edges are golden brown.
9. Let it cool completely in pan before cutting into squares, dust with powdered sugar if desired when serving.
Hints for Success:
1. Butter should be softened to room temperature to ease its mixing with powdered sugar
2. Do not over mix crust dough because this could make it tough
3. Cut bars cleanly after they have cooled using a sharp knife
Health Benefits:
Although these cherry bars are flavorful indulgences, cherries themselves contain antioxidants and vitamins including vitamin C, potassium etc., whose consumption can improve general health.
Nutritional Information: (Per serving)
Calories: 180
Total fat: 8g
Saturated fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 85mg
Total carbohydrates: 26g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugars: 18g
Protein :2g
Variations and Substitutions:
Instead of almond extract you can use vanilla extract for different taste profile.
– Seek other forms of cherries such as raspberries or blueberries that have a different taste.
– Use gluten-free all-purpose flour mix for a version without gluten.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
A: Sure, you can use either fresh or thawed cherries for this recipe. In case they are frozen, ensure that you drain and chop them before mixing with the ingredients used in making the filling.
Q: How should I store leftover cherry bars?
A: For up to 3 days, store the bars in an air tight container at room temperature or keep them in a refrigerator for even one week. They can also be stored for longer periods if well wrapped, mostly when frozen; however, thaw before eating.