Cherry Dessert Bars with Icing Drizzle

Description

Sweet and tangy cherry filling sandwiched between a buttery, crumbly crust and topped with a delightful icing drizzle. These Cherry Dessert Bars are perfect for parties, potlucks, or a simple family treat!

Ingredients

For the Crust and Topping:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cherry Filling:

• 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for enhanced flavor)

For the Icing Drizzle:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (or more, for desired consistency)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla or almond extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust and Topping

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the dough begins to come together.
5. Press half of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.

Step 2: Add the Cherry Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix the cherry pie filling with almond extract (if using).
2. Spread the cherry filling evenly over the crust layer.

Step 3: Add the Topping

1. Crumble the remaining dough mixture evenly over the cherry filling.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.
2. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan.

Step 5: Make the Icing Drizzle

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla or almond extract until smooth.
2. Drizzle the icing over the cooled bars.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

1. Once the icing is set, cut the bars into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy!

Tips:

• For a fresher taste, substitute canned cherry pie filling with homemade cherry compote.
• Add a handful of sliced almonds or shredded coconut to the crumb topping for extra texture.
• These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.

Total Time:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 2 hours

Nutritional Information (per bar, based on 16 servings):

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 100mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 33g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 2g

These Cherry Dessert Bars are a perfect blend of tart cherries, buttery crumble, and sweet icing drizzle—irresistible!