Cherry Almond Delight Bars

Description

The Cherry Almond Delight Bars bring a perfect balance between the tartness of cherries and the nuttiness of almonds, topped off with a soft, sweet drizzle. Ideal for various occasions, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations, these bars are bound to satisfy your sweet tooth and add a touch of sophistication to your dessert offerings.

Ingredients

• 1 cup soft butter
• 1 3/4 cup sugar
• 4 eggs
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1 tsp. almond extract
• 2 1/2 cups flour
• 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 1/2 cup cherry pie filling (typically 21 oz can)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 3 tbsp. milk (for glaze)

Step-by-step Directions

1. Preparing the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a jelly roll pan to prevent the bars from sticking.

2. Creaming Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the soft butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

3. Adding Eggs and Extracts

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla and almond extracts, ensuring the mixture is well-combined.

4. Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

5. Combining Mixtures

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the creamed butter mixture until everything is fully incorporated.

6. Preparing the Layers

Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the batter. Spread the remaining batter evenly into the prepared pan. Cover this layer with the cherry pie filling, then dollop the reserved batter on top.

7. Baking

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40 minutes. Once done, remove the pan and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes.

8. Preparing and Applying the Glaze

Mix powdered sugar with milk to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle this over the cooled bars.

Servings & Preparation Time

Typically, this recipe yields about 24 bars. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a baking time of 40 minutes.

Tips for Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Keep the bars in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to five days or refrigerated for up to ten days.
• Freezing: These bars can be frozen for up to three months. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to airtight containers.
• Reheating: If desired, gently reheat in a microwave for a few seconds before serving to restore the fresh-baked taste and texture.

Conclusion

The Cherry Almond Delight Bars are a versatile recipe that combines simplicity with delightful flavors. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the fusion of fruity and nutty tastes in their desserts. Whether serving at a party or enjoying a quiet treat at home, these bars are sure to be a hit.

Cherry Almond Delight Bars

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• Author: Dulcia
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 24 bars 1x

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Description

The Cherry Almond Delight Bars bring a perfect balance between the tartness of cherries and the nuttiness of almonds, topped off with a soft, sweet drizzle. Ideal for various occasions, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations, these bars are bound to satisfy your sweet tooth and add a touch of sophistication to your dessert offerings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup soft butter
• 1 3/4 cup sugar
• 4 eggs
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1 tsp. almond extract
• 2 1/2 cups flour
• 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 1/2 cup cherry pie filling (typically 21 oz can)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 3 tbsp. milk (for glaze)

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Instructions

1. Preparing the Oven and Pan: Start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a jelly roll pan to prevent the bars from sticking.
2. Creaming Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the soft butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Adding Eggs and Extracts: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla and almond extracts, ensuring the mixture is well-combined.
4. Mixing Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Combining Mixtures: Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the creamed butter mixture until everything is fully incorporated.
6. Preparing the Layers: Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the batter. Spread the remaining batter evenly into the prepared pan. Cover this layer with the cherry pie filling, then dollop the reserved batter on top.
7. Baking: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40 minutes. Once done, remove the pan and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes.
8. Preparing and Applying the Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with milk to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle this over the cooled bars.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes