Name: Sweet and Tart Christmas Cherry Bars for a Holiday Treat
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (unsalted); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (or coconut sugar for lower glycemic); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free 1:1 baking flour); 2 large Eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 cup Dried Cherries (can swap for dried cranberries or apricots); 1 cup White Chocolate Chips (or dark chocolate chips for richness); 1 cup Oats (adjust for personal preferences); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (or less/coconut sugar for lower sweetness)

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself on a sweet mission to create desserts that shine with festive cheer. Enter these Christmas Cherry Bars! Combining the tangy sweetness of dried cherries with the smooth richness of white chocolate, this recipe is perfect for anyone craving a homemade treat that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Not only are they easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the holidays, but their beautiful presentation makes them a showstopper at any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating with friends, family, or simply treating yourself, these bars promise to add a touch of joy to your festivities. Curious about how to create this deliciously cheerful dessert? Let’s dive in!

Why are Christmas Cherry Bars a must-try?

Easy & Quick: With a straightforward preparation method, these festive bars come together in no time, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules.

Versatile Options: Feel free to play with flavors by swapping dried cherries for cranberries or your favorite chocolate type, like in our delicious Cherry Pie Bars.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: The combination of sweet-tart cherries and creamy white chocolate captivates everyone, promising to be a hit at any holiday gathering.

Aesthetic Delight: Their vibrant colors and glossy finish make these bars not only delicious but also a stunning addition to your dessert table.

Storage & Make-Ahead: These bars can be made ahead of time and stored easily, allowing their flavors to deepen—perfect for stress-free entertaining!

Christmas Cherry Bars Ingredients

• To create the delightful Christmas Cherry Bars, gather these essentials:

For the Base

Butter – Provides richness and structure; opt for unsalted butter for better sweetness control.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and creates that beloved crumbly texture; can be substituted with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the sturdy base of the bars; for a gluten-free twist, use a 1:1 baking flour blend.
Eggs – Binds the ingredients together and enhances moisture; consider using flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
Baking Powder – Ensures a light texture in the bars; there’s no need for substitutions.

For the Filling

Dried Cherries – Offer chewy bursts of tart flavor; try swapping them with dried cranberries or apricots for a refreshing variation.
White Chocolate Chips – Contributes the signature creaminess and sweetness; or, boost richness by using dark chocolate chips instead.

For the Crumble Topping

Oats – Adds texture and crunch; feel free to adjust for personal preferences.
Brown Sugar – Sweetens the topping while complementing the bars; you can lower the sweetness by using less or opting for coconut sugar instead.

These Christmas Cherry Bars are destined to become a cherished recipe in your holiday repertoire!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Cherry Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the Christmas Cherry Bars from sticking. This simple step ensures a perfectly baked treat that can easily be lifted from the pan later.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat them together on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is the foundation of your Christmas Cherry Bars, where creativeness begins to unfold!

Step 3: Add Eggs
Crack in two eggs and mix well until fully integrated into the buttery-sugary base. Continue mixing for another minute until everything is smooth and creamy. This step adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients together, ensuring a delightful texture in your Christmas Cherry Bars.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and baking powder, gently mixing until just combined. Be mindful not to overmix, as this could affect the texture of your bars. You’ll know it’s ready when no flour streaks remain, and the batter is thick and smooth.

Step 5: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate
Next, gently fold in the dried cherries and white chocolate chips using a spatula. This harmonious blend adds bursts of tartness and sweetness to your Christmas Cherry Bars. Make sure the fruit and chocolate are evenly distributed throughout the batter for a balanced bite in every piece.

Step 6: Spread the Batter
Spread the thick batter evenly into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. This ensures that each Christmas Cherry Bar bakes uniformly. Once it’s evenly distributed, you can set it aside to prepare the crumble topping.

Step 7: Prepare the Crumble Topping
In a small bowl, combine oats and brown sugar to create your crumble topping. If desired, you can add a bit of melted butter for extra richness. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the batter in the baking dish, creating a crunchy finish that beautifully complements the soft base.

Step 8: Bake
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye out for the edges turning golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center coming out clean. This signals that your Christmas Cherry Bars are ready to be taken out and cooled.

Step 9: Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool in the baking dish on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. This cooling period is crucial for set bars that slice neatly. Once sufficiently cool, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares for serving, revealing the inviting layers within!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Cherry Bars are a gem for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the base and crumble topping up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the batter, spread it in your baking dish, and top it with the crumble. Cover tightly and refrigerate to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to impress your guests, just remove the dish from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then bake as instructed. This prep-ahead strategy not only saves you time on busy days but also enhances the flavors as they meld together overnight, ensuring your bars are just as delicious when serving!

Christmas Cherry Bars Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your imagination run wild and customize these delightful bars to your taste!

Dried Fruit Swap: Try using dried cranberries or apricots instead of cherries for a delightful twist. Each fruit brings its own flavor to the party!
Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a satisfying crunch. The rich nuttiness complements the sweetness beautifully.
Chocolate Shift: Substitute white chocolate with dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor contrast. This bold move might just become your new favorite!
Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm and inviting flavor perfect for the holiday season. Just imagine that aroma filling your kitchen!
Gluten-Free Adventure: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy. No one will notice the difference!
Fun Frosting: Drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bars for an extra sweet touch. It’s like a little holiday gift on top!
Savory Twist: Explore with herbs! Infuse a bit of rosemary or thyme into the crumble topping for a unique flavor contrast that surprises the palate. Your guests will be intrigued!
Chilled Treats: Consider freezing the bars for a cold dessert option. Just like our delightful Cherry Pie Bars, they become refreshing pieces of heaven on a warm day!

Let these variations inspire you to make these Christmas Cherry Bars truly your own!

Storage Tips for Christmas Cherry Bars

Room Temperature: Store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They’ll maintain their delightful texture and flavor perfectly!

Fridge: For extended freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure they’re wrapped tightly to prevent drying out.

Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze your Christmas Cherry Bars for up to 3 months. Wrap portions in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating: Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a warm treat, simply microwave a square for about 10-15 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked feel!

Expert Tips for Christmas Cherry Bars

Avoid Overmixing: Mix wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bars instead of the light texture you want for your Christmas Cherry Bars.
Egg Temperature Matters: Use room temperature eggs for a smoother batter. Cold eggs can create lumps, affecting the final product’s texture.
Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. Cutting them warm can cause them to crumble and fall apart.
Use Quality Chocolate: Invest in high-quality white chocolate chips for the best flavor. It genuinely elevates the taste of your Christmas Cherry Bars.
Try Different Fruits: Feel free to swap dried cherries for cranberries or apricots—experimenting can yield delicious variations of this festive treat!

What to Serve with Christmas Cherry Bars

As you gather around the holiday table, create a wonderful spread to complement the festive sweetness of these delightful bars.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast that enhances the bars’ rich flavors.
Hot Chocolate: Picture a cozy cup of hot chocolate topped with marshmallows, perfect for sipping alongside your cherry bars. The warm, velvety beverage makes every bite feel extra festive.
Spiced Tea: Serve with a warm cup of chai or spiced tea, where the aromatic spices will perfectly contrast the sweet-tart cherries and creamy chocolate.
Cheese Platter: An assortment of soft cheeses balances the sweetness; brie or goat cheese paired with honey offers a delightful savory-sweet combination.
Almond Biscotti: These crunchy, nutty snacks create a nice texture contrast and pair wonderfully with the creamy richness of the bars. Dip them in tea or coffee for a delightful combination.
Minty Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with mint brightens the palette and adds a pop of color, making your dessert table feel even more festive.
Eggnog: A classic holiday drink, the creamy and spiced flavor of eggnog harmonizes beautifully with these Christmas Cherry Bars, wrapping the flavors in seasonal cheer.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Infuse the spirit of the season into your pairing with a comforting pumpkin spice latte that resonates with festive flavors.
Gingerbread Cookies: Traditional gingerbread cookies add warmth and traditional flair to your dessert table, enhancing the joyous holiday atmosphere.

Christmas Cherry Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right dried cherries for the Christmas Cherry Bars?
Absolutely! When selecting dried cherries, look for ones that are plump and free from dark spots. Avoid those that seem overly hard or have an excessive amount of sugar coating, as they may overwhelm the flavor of your bars. If you’re looking for a more vibrant color, opt for tart cherries, which can add a delightful tang to your dessert.

What is the best way to store Christmas Cherry Bars?
I recommend storing your Christmas Cherry Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This keeps them soft and delicious! If you want to extend their shelf life, placing them in the refrigerator can preserve freshness for up to two weeks—just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid drying out.

Can I freeze Christmas Cherry Bars?
Yes, you can freeze these delightful bars! To do so, slice the bars first and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator or leave at room temperature for a few hours. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds!

What should I do if my Christmas Cherry Bars are too crumbly?
If you find that your Christmas Cherry Bars are too crumbly, it could be due to overmixing the batter or not enough moisture. To avoid this in the future, make sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined—too much mixing can develop the gluten in the flour and lead to dense bars. If you’re already at that point, simply add a drizzle of melted butter or a splash of milk to the crumbled bars, press them into a dish, and enjoy a delicious crumbl cake!

Are there any dietary considerations for making Christmas Cherry Bars?
Very much so! For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt this recipe. To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan option, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs and the same with coconut sugar for a sweeter, lower-glycemic index treat. Just be aware that different substitutions may alter the texture slightly, so be sure to keep an eye on baking times!