In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, few things spark joy quite like the sweet scent of baking wafting through the kitchen. This Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars Dessert transforms simple ingredients into a stunningly festive treat that captures the essence of Christmas cheer. With its buttery shortbread base topped with tangy dried cherries and luscious white chocolate chips, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that can be whipped up with minimal effort. These adaptable bars not only make for a delightful addition to your holiday gatherings but also serve as a perfect canvas for your favorite toppings or mix-ins. Whether you’re prepping for a cookie exchange or just need a delicious snack for your family, these bars promise to bring warmth and joy to your festive celebrations. What sweet twist will you add to make them your own?
Why are These Christmas Cherry Bars Special?
Simplicity: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike.
Festive Flavor: With the delightful combination of dried cherries and white chocolate, these bars provide a burst of seasonal sweetness that will enchant everyone around.
Versatile Base: Feel free to customize these bars by swapping dried cherries for cranberries or adding a sprinkle of nuts for an extra crunch.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for cookie exchanges or holiday parties, these bars are always a hit and will impress your friends and family.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake them ahead of time, store them, and simply reheat for fresh-from-the-oven aroma during your celebrations. For other festive treats, check out these delicious Sweet Cream Dessert and Decadent Millionaire Bars options!
Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars Ingredients
Discover the delightful balance of flavors in these Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars dessert!
For the Shortbread Base
- Butter – Use softened butter for easier creaming with sugar.
- All-Purpose Flour – No substitutions recommended; it forms the base structure.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the base; you can swap with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
For the Topping
- Dried Cherries – Adds a sweet, tangy burst; substitute with cranberries or apricots for a different twist.
- White Chocolate Chips – Provides creamy richness; swap for dark chocolate chips for a bolder taste.
- Optional Add-ins (Pistachios or other nuts) – Adds crunch and flavor; omit for nut-free alternatives.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars Dessert
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, generously grease an 8×8 inch baking pan to ensure your Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars easily release after baking. This foundational step sets the stage for a perfectly baked dessert, so don’t rush; let the oven reach the desired temperature.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is light and airy, about 2-3 minutes. This process creates a fluffy texture that will be essential for your shortbread base. Once creamed, gradually mix in the all-purpose flour until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Form the Shortbread Base
Transfer your shortbread mixture into the greased baking pan. With the back of a spatula or your hands, press the mixture evenly across the bottom of the pan, ensuring it’s smooth and consistent. This layer will form the lovely base for the Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars, so make sure there are no gaps or uneven spots.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Evenly sprinkle the dried cherries over the pressed shortbread base, followed by a generous layer of white chocolate chips. This combination of fruity sweetness and creamy richness is what elevates these bars to the festive favorite they are. Ensure that every corner is filled with these tasty toppings for that delightful burst of flavor in each bite.
Step 5: Create the Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, mix together any remaining flour with a bit of softened butter and sugar until crumbly. Use your fingers to combine until you achieve a sandy texture. This topping will create a lovely contrast on top of the cherries and chocolate, so be sure to sprinkle it generously over the fruit and chocolate layer for an added texture.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown. As the Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars bake, your kitchen will fill with a warm, inviting aroma that’s sure to get everyone’s attention. Keep a close eye to avoid over-baking, as you want a soft, chewy texture.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, which should take about 1-2 hours. This cooling time helps the bars set properly for easier slicing. Once cool, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares, making sure each piece includes a bit of that delicious shortbread, cherry, and chocolate.
Expert Tips for Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars
Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is softened (but not melted) for easier creaming, which prevents overmixing and results in a tender shortbread base.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bars towards the end of the baking process. If they start to brown too much, cover with aluminum foil to avoid burning.
Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan for 1-2 hours before slicing. This step ensures they hold their shape and aren’t too crumbly.
Even Layering: Press the shortbread base evenly and distribute toppings uniformly; this guarantees that every bite of your Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars has a balanced flavor.
Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for firmer bars; they can also be frozen for up to three months without losing their delightful flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars
Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.
Refrigeration: For a firmer texture, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Allow them to sit at room temperature before serving for optimal taste.
Freezer: Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer bag to freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave briefly for a warm treat.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars, transfer them to the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the festive flavors with less stress during the holiday rush! You can prepare the shortbread base up to 24 hours in advance by pressing it into the greased pan and then refrigerating it, which helps maintain its freshness and prevents browning. Additionally, you can mix the topping ingredients (dried cherries, white chocolate chips, and crumble) and store them separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply layer the toppings over the chilled base, pop them in the oven, and enjoy the same delicious, aromatic results just as if they were freshly made!
Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful bars to match your taste!
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped pistachios or walnuts for a satisfying crunch. The nuttiness complements the sweet cherries beautifully.
- Chocolate Lovers: Substitute white chocolate chips with rich dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor experience. This little change can create a new favorite!
- Berry Bliss: Use dried cranberries or apricots instead of cherries for a different burst of fruity goodness. Adjust the sweetness according to the substitute you choose.
- Citrus Zing: Add zest from lemon or orange to the shortbread base for a refreshing hint of brightness. This twist adds a layer of complexity.
- Spice it Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for those warm holiday flavors. A sprinkle of spices truly brings seasonal cheer.
- Fruity Fusion: Mix in chopped figs or dates for a chewy texture and rich sweetness. This variation adds another layer of flavor that’s sure to impress!
- Healthy Twist: Replace half the butter with applesauce for a lighter option without sacrificing moisture. It’s an easy way to enjoy a guilt-free dessert.
- Decadent Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate on top after cooling for an extra fancy presentation. It elevates your bars from delicious to show-stopping!
For other holiday treats, don’t forget to explore these scrumptious recipes like the Old Fashioned Dessert and Nutella Cheesecake Bars!
What to Serve with Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars Dessert
In the midst of holiday festivities, complement these indulgent cherry bars with delightful pairings that elevate every celebration.
Warm Spiced Cider: Infused with cinnamon and cloves, this comforting drink accentuates the holiday flavors of your cherry bars. The warmth enhances the sweetness, creating a cozy vibe.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream brings a luscious contrast to the chewy texture of the bars, perfectly harmonizing with the fruity and chocolate notes.
Festive Cheese Platter: Serve an assortment of cheeses alongside fresh fruits and nuts to create a savory balance with your sweet cherry bars, offering guests a delightful tasting experience.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling extra melted white or dark chocolate over the bars enhances the sweetness and presents a visually appealing finish that tempts every sweet tooth.
Fresh Mint Tea: This refreshing herbal tea with a hint of sweetness can cleanse the palate while pairing well with the rich flavors of your Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars dessert.
Holiday Sugar Cookies: Add a lively assortment of colorful sugar cookies for a classic dessert table feel. The mix of textures will please the crowd during cookie exchanges.
Pecan Pie Bars: A slice of gooey pecan pie brings the holiday spirit with its rich flavors and buttery crust, creating a delightful dessert pair with your festive cherry bars.
Drunken Fruit Punch: This fun, fruity refreshment enhances gatherings, packing a punch that plays off the sweetness of the cherry bars while lively flavors create a cheerful atmosphere.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a grand holiday spread that not only fills the table but warms the hearts of every guest celebrating together.
Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right dried cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for dried cherries that are plump, moist, and have a vibrant color. Avoid any that are overly hard or have dark spots all over, as these may indicate that they’re past their prime. If you have difficulty finding dried cherries, you can easily swap them with dried cranberries or apricots for a delightful variation.
What’s the best way to store my Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars?
To keep your Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For an even firmer texture, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to bring back their lovely flavor!
Can I freeze these bars, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars, first, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and then place them in an airtight freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or microwave briefly for that freshly-baked taste!
What if my bars turn out too crumbly?
Very! A crumbly texture primarily comes from over-baking or not creaming the butter and sugar sufficiently. Ensure you watch the baking time closely—aim for a golden brown top but remove them while they’re still slightly soft. If you find they’re still too crumbly, try creaming the butter and sugar together longer next time to achieve that light, airy mixture!
Are these Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars nut-free?
Yes! While the recipe includes optional nuts like pistachios, you can easily omit them to keep your bars nut-free. Just be sure to check the labels on any chocolate you use as some brands could include traces of nuts. It’s always best to double-check if you’re baking for someone with allergies.
How can I customize my Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars?
Absolutely! There are countless ways to put your spin on these bars. You could use dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor, swap cherries for dried cranberries or apricots for a different tartness, or even sprinkle in some lemon or orange zest for a citrus kick. The more the merrier—always feel free to get creative!
Delightful Tasty Christmas Cherry Bars Dessert for Everyone
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and airy.
- Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour until just combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the greased baking pan.
- Sprinkle dried cherries and white chocolate chips evenly over the shortbread base.
- Mix remaining flour with softened butter and sugar until crumbly; sprinkle over the toppings.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown, then let cool completely before slicing.
