Irresistible Cherry Bars for a Crowd: A Sweet Delight to Satisfy Your Cravings 🍒🍰
Indulge your taste buds in the divine symphony of flavors with our Cherry Bars for a Crowd recipe. This delightful treat strikes the perfect balance between the sweet and tart notes of juicy cherries, enveloped in a buttery, crumbly crust. Ideal for entertaining guests or satisfying your sweet tooth cravings, these bars are not only delicious but also visually stunning – a vibrant burst of red cherries set against a golden backdrop.
Prepare to embark on a culinary journey with this easy-to-follow recipe that guarantees to make you the star of any gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, these Cherry Bars will have everyone asking for seconds. 🌟
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour 🍚
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar 🍬
- 1/4 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌿
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved 🍒
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for cherry filling) 🍬
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch 🌽
- 1/4 cup lemon juice 🍋
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional) ☁️
Price Breakdown:
- All-purpose flour: $1.50
- Unsalted butter: $2.99
- Granulated sugar: $1.00
- Salt: $0.50
- Vanilla extract: $3.99
- Cherries: $5.99
- Cornstarch: $1.99
- Lemon juice: $0.75
- Powdered sugar: $2.50
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until a crumbly dough forms.
- Press two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the crust.
- In a separate bowl, mix together cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Spread the cherry mixture evenly over the crust.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the cherry layer, creating a crumbly topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow the Cherry Bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q1: Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones? A: Absolutely! Frozen cherries work just as well. Make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using.
Q2: Can I substitute the butter for a healthier alternative? A: While you can experiment with substitutes, butter contributes to the rich flavor and texture. For the best results, stick to the recipe.
Q3: How long do these bars stay fresh? A: Stored in an airtight container, these Cherry Bars stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. You can also refrigerate them for longer shelf life.
Savor the moments with these Cherry Bars for a Crowd – a culinary masterpiece that’s both heavenly on the palate and a feast for the eyes! 🍒✨
