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Cherry Bars for a Crowd: The Ultimate Sweet Treat

When it comes to crowd-pleasing desserts, Cherry Bars for a Crowd is a complete game-changer! You know those days when you need a quick dessert that not only looks impressive but also tastes divine? Well, this recipe is your new best friend! Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a fun weekend treat, these cherry bars will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but will also bring smiles to everyone’s faces.

Why You’ll Love These Cherry Bars

Imagine biting into a luscious layer of sweet, sticky cherries over a buttery, soft base—pure bliss! This dessert truly embodies the spirit of sharing and joy, making it ideal for gatherings where you want everyone to feel included and happy. Plus, these bars are incredibly easy to make, meaning you’ll have more time to mingle with friends or chase after those little ones! Trust me, this recipe is about to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful Cherry Bars:

• For the crust:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (let it sit at room temperature—goodbye, hard butter cubes!)

• For the filling:

  • 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling (the easier, the better, am I right?)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken things up)

• For the crumble topping:

  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Directions: How to Bake Your Cherry Bars

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is where the magic happens!

2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Toss in the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this crumbly goodness into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. So satisfying!

3. Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, mix the cherry pie filling with the vanilla extract and cornstarch. This will not only add flavor but also help thicken that luscious filling.

4. Spread the Filling: Pour the cherry mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly to cover.

5. Make the Topping: In yet another bowl (I promise we’re almost done with the dishes!), combine oats, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly and sprinkle this over the cherry layer.

6. Bake: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Your kitchen will smell like a cherry orchard—that’s a promise!

7. Cool and Slice: After taking the pan out of the oven, let it cool completely. But let’s be real, the smell might tempt you to dig in early! Once cool, cut into bars and serve.

Cooking Tips

• Picky Eaters Alert: Don’t worry if your kids prefer something a bit less adventurous—these bars are a hit for all ages! They’ll never even know they’re eating fruit (shh, it’s our little secret).

• Cherries Not On Hand?: Use other fruits like blueberries or apple pie filling if you want to switch things up a bit. Just keep that spirit of experimentation alive in the kitchen!

A Cherry-Filled Memory

I remember the first time I made Cherry Bars for a big family gathering. My niece, who was known for being a notoriously picky eater, took one bite and her eyes lit up! It became an instant tradition for every family reunion since. Now, every time I make them, it feels like a warm hug from the past—where flavors and family come together in the best possible way.

FAQs About Cherry Bars

Can I substitute the cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Try using blueberry, peach, or even a mix of berries for a unique twist on this classic dessert.

How can I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (and that’s a big if), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week—if they last that long!

Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, they freeze beautifully! Just cut them into bars, wrap each one in plastic wrap, and pop them in a freezer-safe bag. You can pull them out whenever the cravings hit!

There you have it—Cherry Bars for a Crowd is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings everyone together, one sweet bite at a time. So next time you find yourself in a baking mood, remember these bars—quick, easy, and absolutely delicious! Grab your apron and let’s create some joy in the kitchen!

Meta Description: Cherry Bars for a Crowd is the perfect recipe for gatherings. Quick, easy, and delicious, these bars will delight everyone. Try them today!

For more fantastic recipes that promise to bring the family together, check out my collection of quick dessert recipes. And for tips on getting the kids involved in baking, visit this fun article here. Happy baking!