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Christmas Cherry Bars

These festive cherry bars are perfect for holiday gatherings, with a buttery shortbread base, a cherry filling, and a sweet glaze that will delight your guests.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Buy on sale for best value.
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract Use carefully for flavor.
Cherry Filling and Glaze
  • 1 cup cherry pie filling Can substitute with frozen cherries, drained.
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan.
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until just combined. Stir in the almond extract.
  4. Press the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create an even layer.
  5. Spoon the cherry pie filling over the shortbread base, spreading it evenly.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  2. Allow to cool completely.
Glazing and Serving
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze.
  2. Drizzle over the cooled bars.
  3. Cut into squares and serve at gatherings.

Notes

If you're assembling these while listening to holiday music, you're doing it right! These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before glazing.