Name: Irresistible Cherry Bars: A Festive Twist for Holiday Joy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup dried cherries (or dried cranberries); 1 cup white chocolate chips (or dark chocolate chips); 1/2 cup pistachios (optional, can be omitted)

As I walked through the bustling holiday market, the sweet aroma of baked goods filled the air, drawing me toward a quaint little stall. There, I discovered a delightful treat that would soon become a festive tradition in my kitchen—Christmas Cherry Bars. These buttery bars, with their rich shortbread base, harmoniously blend sweet and tart flavors from dried cherries and creamy white chocolate chips. What I cherish most about this recipe is its simplicity; it’s perfect for busy holiday schedules while still impressing family and friends. Plus, you can easily adapt the bars with a sprinkle of pistachios or swap in dark chocolate, making them a versatile crowd-pleaser. Ready to dive into the world of festive flavors? Let’s get started!

Why are Cherry Bars a Holiday Favorite?

Simplicity at Its Best: These Cherry Bars come together effortlessly, making them ideal for hectic holiday schedules.

Adaptable Delight: With options to swap in pistachios or dark chocolate, you can easily customize them to your taste.

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery shortbread, chewy dried cherries, and creamy white chocolate creates a taste sensation that’s sure to impress.

Perfect for Sharing: They’re an excellent choice for cookie exchanges or holiday parties, ensuring everyone gets a sweet treat.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These bars are loved by both kids and adults, making them a surefire hit at any gathering.

Make Ahead: Enjoy peace of mind knowing you can prepare these in advance and store them for up to a week. Need more festive inspiration? Try my Buckeye Bars Decadent as another holiday treat!

Cherry Bars Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make these delightful Cherry Bars!

For the Base
• Butter – Provides structure and richness; use unsalted for better control of salt levels.
• Sugar – Sweetens the bars and contributes to the crispness; substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Flour – Acts as the foundational element, creating the base; use all-purpose flour for best results.

For the Filling
• Dried Cherries – Adds a tart flavor and chewy texture; substitute with dried cranberries for a seasonal twist.
• White Chocolate Chips – Introduces creamy sweetness; feel free to swap for dark chocolate chips if preferred.
• Pistachios (optional) – Adds a pop of color and flavor; can be omitted or replaced with nuts of your choice.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Christmas Cherry Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Base
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add in 2 cups of all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. This will create the buttery shortbread base for your Cherry Bars.

Step 2: Mix in Cherries and Chips
Once your dough is ready, gently fold in 1 cup of dried cherries and 1 cup of white chocolate chips using a spatula. Ensure that the cherries and chocolate are evenly distributed throughout the dough, creating a delightful mix of flavors in your Festive Christmas Cherry Bars. Take care not to overmix, as you want to maintain the dough’s lovely texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars
Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it with butter or cooking spray. Transfer the dough mixture into the pan, pressing it down firmly and evenly with your hands or a spatula. This step is essential to ensure your Cherry Bars bake uniformly. Aim for a level surface to achieve those perfect squares when slicing.

Step 4: Bake
Place the prepared pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as the bars should have a slight firmness to the touch. The delightful aroma of the Cherry Bars will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

Step 5: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the Cherry Bars to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. After they’ve cooled slightly, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once the bars are fully cooled, slice them into squares and prepare to share this festive treat with friends and family!

How to Store and Freeze Cherry Bars

Airtight Container: Store your Cherry Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their fresh taste and chewy texture.

Fridge: If you’d like to extend their shelf life, refrigerate the Cherry Bars for up to two weeks. Just ensure they’re properly wrapped to avoid drying out.

Freezer: Freeze the bars for up to three months. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for easier snacking later.

Reheating: To enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back their delightful softness.

Cherry Bars: Delightfully Adaptable

Embrace your inner chef and let your creativity shine by customizing these festive Cherry Bars to suit your taste buds!

Pistachio Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pistachios to the dough for a delightful crunch and a pop of color. The nuttiness complements the sweet and tart flavors beautifully.
Dark Chocolate Delight: Swap white chocolate chips for dark chocolate to create a richer, more decadent flavor profile. This variation is perfect for chocolate lovers seeking a festive twist!
Cranberry Swirl: Replace dried cherries with dried cranberries for a tangy kick that adds a seasonal brightness to your bars. The tartness of cranberries can enhance the overall taste experience.
Spiced Variation: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour for a warm, cozy flavor that evokes the spirit of the holidays. It’s a whimsical touch that sparks joy in each bite.
Orange Zest Infusion: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of fresh orange zest into the dough for a zesty burst that lifts the flavors. This bright addition will remind you of festive citrus celebrations.
Nutty Surprise: Use a mix of your favorite nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, instead of just pistachios. This not only adds a delightful crunch but also brings in varied textures and flavors.
Chili Kick: For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the mixture. This unexpected twist can surprise your guests and elevate your bars to a whole new level.
Check Out More Treats: If you’re inspired by these Cherry Bars and want to explore further festive options, don’t miss my Buckeye Bars Decadent or Roasted Chocolate Cherry. Both are delicious additions to your holiday dessert table!

What to Serve with Festive Christmas Cherry Bars

Indulge in the joy of the season by crafting a delightful spread to accompany these delectable bars.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of ice cream adds a rich creaminess that perfectly balances the tart cherry flavor.
Warm Spiced Apple Cider: The warm spices in apple cider create a cozy atmosphere and complement the sweet notes of the bars.
Holiday Fruit Salad: Fresh, seasonal fruits provide a refreshing contrast, brightening up your plate with vibrant colors and natural sweetness.
Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top elevates the cherry bars, creating a beautiful presentation and enhancing the chocolate flavor.
Nutty Biscotti: Serve alongside crunchy biscotti for an additional textural element, perfect for dipping into your favorite hot beverage.
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, harmonizes with the festive flavors and creates a soothing experience.
Pecan Pie: For dessert aficionados, the rich, buttery pecan pie complements the chewy texture of the Cherry Bars for a decadent treat.
Cheese Platter: Pairing with a selection of creamy cheeses adds a savory contrast to the sweetness, transforming this into a memorable holiday spread.

Enjoy mixing and matching these pairings to create a truly festive atmosphere!

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Bars are a fantastic option for busy home cooks eager to simplify their holiday baking! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first two steps of the recipe and storing the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the texture and flavor while preventing browning. Alternatively, you can bake the bars and keep them stored for up to 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature. When you’re ready to serve, simply slice into squares, and if you’d like to elevate their presentation, consider drizzling with melted chocolate before sharing. These make-ahead strategies ensure that your Cherry Bars are just as delicious as if they were freshly baked, saving you time and stress during the festive season!

Expert Tips for the Best Cherry Bars

Butter Temperature: Always ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best creaming consistency with sugar, leading to a light texture in your Cherry Bars.
Even Baking: Press the dough firmly and evenly in the pan to ensure that your bars bake uniformly. Uneven spreading can lead to some parts being undercooked.
Avoid Overmixing: When folding in dried cherries and white chocolate chips, do so gently. Overmixing can toughen the dough and compromise the tender texture.
Cooling Period: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This step helps them set and makes cutting into squares much easier.
Customization Options: Feel free to add unique touches like a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top for an elevated flavor profile in your Cherry Bars.

Christmas Cherry Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe and quality dried cherries?
Absolutely! When selecting dried cherries, look for cherries that are plump and have a vibrant color. Avoid those with dark spots all over or a dry, shriveled appearance, as they may indicate poor quality. If possible, opt for unsweetened varieties to control the sweetness in your Cherry Bars.

How should I store leftover Cherry Bars?
For sure! Store your Cherry Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to keep them fresh. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks, just be sure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze Cherry Bars, and if so, how?
Very much so! To freeze your Cherry Bars, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe container. These can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their delightful softness.

What should I do if my Cherry Bars don’t bake evenly?
If you notice your Cherry Bars aren’t baking evenly, it could be due to uneven spreading in the pan. Make sure to press the dough down firmly and evenly before baking. Additionally, your oven temperature might be off—consider using an oven thermometer to ensure the right temperature for perfect baking results.

Are these Cherry Bars suitable for anyone with food allergies?
For sure! These Cherry Bars contain butter and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies. You can substitute dairy-free butter for a lactose-free version. If someone has nut allergies, simply omit the optional pistachios. Always check labels for allergen warnings on your ingredients to ensure safety.

Can these Cherry Bars be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. I recommend using a one-to-one baking blend to ensure the right consistency in your Cherry Bars. Just monitor their baking time, as it might vary slightly!