Sweet Cherry Almond Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of sweet cherries and nutty almonds, creating a perfect dessert for any occasion. These bars are easy to make and are ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sweet snack at home. With a buttery crust and a luscious cherry filling, these bars will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sweet cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the Cherries and Almonds: Gently fold in the chopped sweet cherries and sliced almonds into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Spread the Mixture: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the batter.
How do I store Sweet Cherry Almond Bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I substitute almonds with another nut?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute sliced almonds with walnuts, pecans, or any nut of your choice.
What can I serve with Sweet Cherry Almond Bars?
These bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.