Christmas Cherry Bars

Save this recipe on:

With their vibrant red filling and buttery shortbread-style layers, Christmas Cherry Bars are the kind of dessert that looks like holiday cheer in edible form. These gooey cherry-studded squares are perfect for winter gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply cozy nights with a mug of cocoa. The sweet-tart cherry pie filling sandwiched between tender vanilla crusts gives you a luscious bite every time.

What makes them extra special is their festive flair without the fuss. You won’t need fancy tools or complex techniques to get a show-stopping dessert. Whether you’re baking ahead for a party or need something last-minute, these cherry bars come together quickly and slice beautifully. Their simplicity is part of their charm.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cherry Bars Recipe

These bars are the epitome of easy holiday baking. They bring together a few basic pantry staples to create something that tastes bakery-worthy. They hold their shape when cut, travel well, and stay fresh for days – a win for gifting or potlucks. Plus, that juicy cherry center never fails to grab attention!

What Kind of Cherry Pie Filling Should I Use?

You can use any canned cherry pie filling you prefer. Classic sweet cherry is always a hit, but if you want a little more zing, try a tart cherry blend. Just make sure the filling is thick and not watery, so it doesn’t make the crust soggy. If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade cherry pie filling is a delightful upgrade.

---

Ingredients for the Christmas Cherry Bars

Each ingredient in these bars plays a role in balancing flavor and texture. Let’s look at what you’ll need:

• Unsalted Butter: This is the base of your crust. It adds richness and helps everything hold together while baking into a golden, tender bite.
• Granulated Sugar: Brings sweetness to the dough and balances the tartness of the cherries.
• Eggs: Add structure and richness, helping the crust set up properly.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the bulk of the dough and creates that firm but tender base.
• Salt: Just a pinch helps enhance all the other flavors.
• Cherry Pie Filling: The star of the show! Bright, juicy, and colorful.
• Almond Extract (optional): A tiny splash adds a wonderful cherry-almond bakery note that pairs beautifully with the filling.

---

How To Make the Christmas Cherry Bars

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by beating the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This creates air in the dough, helping the base bake up tender.

Step 2: Add the Eggs and Flavorings

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract (and almond, if using). Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the flour and salt until the dough comes together. It will be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 4: Layer the Dough

Spread about two-thirds of the dough into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Smooth it out to cover the bottom evenly.

Step 5: Add the Cherry Filling

Spoon the cherry pie filling over the base layer, spreading it gently to cover.

Step 6: Top with Remaining Dough

Drop small spoonfuls of the remaining dough across the top of the cherry filling. It won’t cover completely – that’s okay! The cherries should peek through.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes or until the top is golden and set. Cool completely before slicing.

---

How to Serve and Store These Cherry Bars

These Christmas Cherry Bars slice into clean, beautiful squares and make a stunning addition to any dessert spread. Serve them chilled or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar or even drizzled with a simple glaze.

They keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. You can also freeze them in layers with parchment paper for up to 3 months. This recipe yields 20 to 24 squares, depending on how you cut them, making it perfect for feeding a crowd.

What to Serve With Christmas Cherry Bars?

Hot Chocolate

A rich cup of cocoa makes the cherry flavor pop even more.

Eggnog

The creamy, spiced drink complements the tartness of the cherries.

Peppermint Tea

A light and refreshing pairing to balance the sweetness.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Serve bars slightly warm with a scoop of ice cream for a dreamy dessert.

Mulled Wine

For an adult twist, this warm spiced drink is a cozy combo.

Whipped Cream

Just a dollop turns each square into a mini cherry shortcake.

Coffee or Espresso

Perfect for a holiday brunch or after-dinner treat.

---

Want More Bar Dessert Ideas?

If you adore these Christmas Cherry Bars, you’ll definitely want to try some of our other irresistible bar recipes:

• Peach Cobbler Crumble Bars for a summery stone fruit twist.
• Knock You Naked Bars if you’re craving gooey, chocolatey indulgence.
• Easy Apple Crisp Bars for cozy cinnamon-apple flavor.
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups for a tangy creamy bite.
• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake if you’re a fan of cherry and chocolate together.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest holiday board so you can revisit it all season long.

And I’d love to hear from you! Did you keep it classic or add a personal spin? Maybe swapped in a different fruit? Leave a comment below with your version — your creativity inspires everyone.

Explore beautifully curated desserts and festive bakes on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next holiday baking obsession!

Print

Save this recipe on: