Introduction
Maraschino Cherry Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the rich taste of a buttery shortbread crust with the sweet, tangy flavor of maraschino cherries. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual afternoon treat. With their vibrant color and delicious taste, these bars are guaranteed to stand out on any dessert table. The recipe is easy to follow and can be made with just a few basic ingredients. Additionally, the optional glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness, taking these bars to the next level. If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dessert, Maraschino Cherry Bars are the perfect choice.
Ingredients:
The Crust and Topping:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
The Cherry Filling:
- 1 jar (10 oz) maraschino cherries, drained and finely chopped
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherry juice (reserved from the jar)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
The Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
The ingredients are simple yet flavorful. Each one plays a key role in achieving the perfect balance between a crumbly crust and a sweet, tangy filling. The glaze, while optional, offers a finishing touch that adds even more sweetness and visual appeal.
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal later.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a large bowl, mix together softened butter, flour, sugar, and salt until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. Press two-thirds of the mixture evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust. Set aside the remaining mixture for the topping.
Step 3: Make the Cherry Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine chopped maraschino cherries, cherry juice, sugar, and cornstarch. Stir the mixture over medium heat until it thickens. Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the filling to cool slightly before spreading it onto the crust.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Spread the cooled cherry filling evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the reserved crust mixture over the top, covering the filling as evenly as possible.
Step 5: Bake
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely before glazing.
Step 6: Add the Glaze (Optional)
If you’re using the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle it evenly over the cooled bars, then allow the glaze to set before slicing into squares.
Variation:
- Almond Flavor: Add a half-teaspoon of almond extract to the cherry filling for a rich, nutty flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans over the top before baking for extra crunch.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Use melted chocolate instead of glaze for a decadent finish.
- Coconut Add-in: Stir shredded coconut into the crust for a tropical twist.
These variations allow you to personalize the recipe according to your preferences. You can also experiment with other flavor combinations to make these bars your own.
Cooking Notes:
- Be sure to let the cherry filling cool slightly before spreading it over the crust. This will help avoid making the crust soggy.
- For clean cuts, chill the bars for about an hour after baking before slicing them.
- Parchment paper is essential for easy removal of the bars from the pan. It also helps prevent the edges from sticking.
- If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the bars for a longer period before serving.
These cooking tips ensure your bars turn out perfectly each time.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these bars as a sweet snack alongside coffee or tea. They’re perfect for an afternoon treat.
- For a more indulgent dessert, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- These bars also make great edible gifts when packaged in festive wrapping.
Consider pairing these bars with other homemade treats to create a delicious dessert platter. They’re versatile and work well with many other desserts.
Tips:
- Always use high-quality maraschino cherries for the best taste and color.
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing them for neat, professional-looking squares.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
- To extend their shelf life, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to two months.
These tips will help you store and enjoy the bars long after they’ve been baked.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 85mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
A: Yes, fresh cherries can be substituted, but you may need to adjust the sugar to make up for the lack of sweetness.
Q: How can I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
A: Ensure the cherry filling is properly thickened and cooled before adding it to the crust. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting.
Q: Can I prepare these bars ahead of time?
A: Yes, these bars can be made a day or two in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Conclusion:
Maraschino Cherry Bars are a simple yet flavorful treat that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Their rich, buttery crust and sweet, tangy filling create a perfect balance of flavors. The optional glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness, while the variations let you personalize the recipe to your liking. Whether you’re preparing them for a holiday party or just as an everyday snack, these bars are a must-try. Give them a try, and you’ll find that they become a regular addition to your dessert repertoire. Take a look at the pecan pie recipe.