Maraschino Cherry Sugar Cookie Bars

Maraschino Cherry Sugar Cookie Bars: A Sweet and Fruity Treat

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, these Maraschino Cherry Sugar Cookie Bars are just the thing. With a soft, buttery sugar cookie base dotted with finely chopped maraschino cherries and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, these bars are the perfect blend of sweet and tangy. Whether you’re making them for a party, holiday gathering, or just to satisfy a craving, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients:

For the Bars:

• ¾ cup maraschino cherries, finely chopped (about half of a 16 oz jar)
• ¾ cup soft butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp almond extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp baking powder

For the Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup butter, softened
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp almond extract
• Dash of salt
• 2 ½ – 3 cups powdered sugar

Directions:

Making the Bars:

1. Prep the Cherries: Start by draining the maraschino cherries thoroughly and chopping them finely. Set the cherries aside and allow any excess liquid to drain off.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully incorporated.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour, salt, and baking powder to the wet ingredients, stirring until the dough forms. Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Press and Bake: Press the dough evenly into a well-greased 9×13-inch baking pan. (For easy removal later, you can line the pan with foil and grease the foil.) Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the edges of the bars are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely before frosting.

Making the Frosting:

1. Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Flavor and Sweetness: Mix in the vanilla extract, almond extract, and a dash of salt. Gradually add the powdered sugar until the frosting reaches a smooth and spreadable consistency.

Assemble the Bars:

1. Frost the Bars: Once the sugar cookie bars have completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
2. Cut and Serve: Cut the bars into squares and serve! Enjoy the burst of sweet cherry flavor combined with the rich and creamy frosting.

Recipe Tips:

• Drain the Cherries Well: Make sure to drain the maraschino cherries thoroughly to avoid excess liquid in your dough, which can affect the texture.
• Chilling the Bars: For cleaner cuts, you can chill the bars in the fridge for about 30 minutes before slicing them.
• Storage: These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Quick Facts:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Calories: 270 kcal per bar
• Servings: 24 bars

These Maraschino Cherry Sugar Cookie Bars are the perfect blend of soft, chewy cookie goodness and bright cherry flavor. The cream cheese frosting adds a rich, tangy touch that complements the sweetness of the bars. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, they are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!

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