Description
If you need a holiday dessert that delivers on both looks and flavor, these Christmas Cherry Bars are the ultimate festive treat. With a buttery, tender vanilla crust and a vibrant layer of juicy cherry pie filling, they bring joy to any cookie platter or gathering. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or prepping ahead, these bars are as reliable as they are beautiful. Perfect for anyone searching for quick breakfast options, easy desserts, food ideas for parties, and colorful treats to share. Add this easy recipe to your Christmas baking list for a delicious win.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cans (21 ounces each) cherry pie filling
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla and almond extract.
4. Gradually mix in flour and salt until dough forms.
5. Spread two-thirds of the dough into the prepared pan evenly.
6. Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the dough.
7. Drop small spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the cherries.
8. Bake for 35–40 minutes until top is lightly golden.
9. Let cool completely before slicing into squares.
10. Store in an airtight container or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Notes
Let the bars cool completely before cutting to get clean slices.
Use parchment paper to lift out of the pan easily for serving or freezing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: cherry bars, Christmas desserts, holiday baking, cherry pie bars, easy cookie bars