Old Fashioned Cherry Bars: Irresistibly Sweet and Chewy!

There’s something undeniably nostalgic about Old Fashioned Cherry Bars. These delightful treats blend the tartness of cherries with a buttery, crumbly base, making them perfect for family gatherings or cozy afternoons at home. As soon as you take a bite, you’ll be transported back to simpler times, evoking fond memories of baking with loved ones.

Moreover, the charm of these classic cherry dessert bars lies in their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch that’s both satisfying and heartwarming. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or chilled in the fridge, Old Fashioned Cherry Bars are sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.

A Classic Dessert for All Occasions:

Old Fashioned Cherry Bars bring a delightful nostalgia to the dessert table, combining the sweetness of cherries with a buttery, crumbly crust. Perfect for family gatherings or casual weekday treats, these bars are a versatile addition to any menu. The bright cherry filling not only adds a burst of flavor but also vibrant color, making them visually appealing as well.

Crafting these cherry bars is relatively simple, yet the outcome is impressive. Start with a base of rich dough, layer it with a homemade cherry filling, and finish off with a crumble topping. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of sweet and tart flavors that transport you back to simpler times.

For another cherry-based delight, check out the mouthwatering Cherry Cheesecake Brownie Bars, which are equally enchanting and perfect for cherry lovers. Whether served warm or chilled, Old Fashioned Cherry Bars are sure to be a hit at any occasion.

Ingredients for Old Fashioned Cherry Bars:

Creating delightful Old Fashioned Cherry Bars requires a medley of ingredients that come together beautifully. Let’s break it down:

• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour – the essential base that provides structure.
• 1 ½ cups Icing Sugar – for that sweet touch and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• ½ cup Unsalted Butter, at room temperature – essential for richness and flavor.
• 1 cup Brown Sugar – adds depth and moisture, giving the bars a chewy consistency.
• 1 cup Glacé Cherries, chopped – vibrant jewels that infuse sweetness and color.
• 2 large Eggs – vital for binding and ensuring the bars set correctly.
• ½ cup Dried Coconut – adds a tropical flair, enhancing the chewy texture.
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract – a subtle, warm complement to the overall taste.
• ½ cup Chopped Pecans (optional) – for an added crunchy texture if desired.

These ingredients meld together to create an irresistible treat, reminiscent of a simpler time. Looking for more cherry recipes? Check out these Cherry Cheesecake Brownie Bars for another delightful option!

How to Prepare Old Fashioned Cherry Bars:

To create delightful Old Fashioned Cherry Bars, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of icing sugar, and 1 cup of unsalted butter at room temperature. Mix until the mixture resembles crumbs. Add 1 cup of brown sugar, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to form a dough. Next, fold in 1 cup of chopped glacés cherries and ½ cup of dried coconut for that tropical touch. If you like, blend in ½ cup of chopped pecans for extra crunch!

Press half of this mixture into a greased baking pan. Reserve the other half for the topping. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden. Sprinkle the remaining mixture on top and bake for another 15 minutes. Allow it to cool before slicing into bars. For more dessert inspiration, check out this cherry cheesecake brownie bar recipe. For a classic take on this dessert, visit this external link for expert tips. Enjoy your sweet treat!

Tips for Perfecting Old Fashioned Cherry Bars:

Achieving the perfect Old Fashioned Cherry Bars requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. First, select high-quality cherries—fresh or well-preserved—enhancing the flavor significantly. When incorporating the cherries, ensure they are pitted and chopped to avoid large chunks that may disrupt the texture. Additionally, balance the sweetness; if using maraschino cherries, reduce added sugar in the recipe for a more balanced taste.

Another suggestion is to allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This cooling period helps set the layers, resulting in cleaner cuts. For a delightful variation, consider adding a drizzle of icing or whipped cream on top for added flair.

For further inspiration, try the Cherry Cheesecake Brownie Bars. Their creamy texture complements the classic qualities of Old Fashioned Cherry Bars while providing a modern twist. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions for Old Fashioned Cherry Bars:

These delightful old fashioned cherry bars serve as a versatile treat perfect for various occasions. Firstly, consider serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert. The warm cherry filling paired with creamy ice cream creates a deliciously indulgent experience. Alternatively, present these bars alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee for an enjoyable afternoon snack.

For a festive touch, sprinkle powdered sugar on top before serving, enhancing their visual appeal and flavor. Pair them with a fruit salad or a tangy yogurt dip to balance the sweetness.

If you’re a cherry lover, you might also enjoy checking out our fun Cherry Cheesecake Brownie Bars recipe, which combines rich flavors reminiscent of old fashioned cherry bars. This not only offers a wonderful variation but also allows you to indulge in another cherry-themed delight.

No matter how you choose to serve them, old fashioned cherry bars are sure to be a hit!

Storage Tips for Old Fashioned Cherry Bars:

To keep your old fashioned cherry bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer preservation, refrigerate them for about a week. If you want to freeze these delightful cherry dessert bars, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. For more cherry-infused treats, check out the Cherry Cheesecake Brownie Bars.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What ingredients are needed for Old Fashioned Cherry Bars?

To create delicious Old Fashioned Cherry Bars, you’ll need basic pantry staples such as flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and fresh or canned cherries. Sometimes, almond extract is added to enhance the cherry flavor, while baking powder is essential for a light, fluffy texture.

Can I use frozen cherries in these bars?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries are a great alternative. Just ensure they are thawed and drained to remove excess moisture. This will help maintain the perfect consistency in your Old Fashioned Cherry Bars.

How can I enhance the presentation of my cherry bars?

For a visually appealing touch, dust your cherry bars with powdered sugar before serving. You might also drizzle chocolate over the top, which pairs beautifully. Another option is to serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Can I substitute the cherries with other fruits?

Certainly! While cherries are classic, you can substitute them with blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile. If you’re interested in similar recipes, you might enjoy my Cherry Cheesecake Brownie Bars, which offer a delightful twist on fruit desserts.

How should I store my Old Fashioned Cherry Bars?

These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, which can extend freshness for up to a week.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Certainly! Making Old Fashioned Cherry Bars in advance is a smart move for gatherings. They keep well, so feel free to bake them a day or two prior to your event for optimal convenience.

Print