Deliciously Decadent Ruby Red Cherry Bars

Introduction

Hello, food lovers! I’m Jenny, the passionate creator behind Recipes Cookery. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a recipe that perfectly combines nostalgia and flavor: Ruby Red Cherry Bars. These delightful bars are not only easy to make but also a fantastic way to celebrate the vibrant flavors of the season.

As a mom, I love making these bars with my son. The joy of cooking together transforms a simple recipe into a cherished memory. And let’s be honest, who can resist the sweet-tart flavor of cherries? They add a pop of color and taste that makes every bite feel special.

Ingredients

Before we get started, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these scrumptious Ruby Red Cherry Bars:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

These ingredients are easy to find, and I love how they come together to create a delicious treat that everyone will adore.

Timing

Timing is key in the kitchen, and here’s what you need to plan for your Ruby Red Cherry Bars:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Baking time: 30 minutes
• Cooling time: 20 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 1 hour

With just about an hour, you can create a dessert that will impress family and friends alike!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Next, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add in the softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Spread the Batter

Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom.

Step 5: Add Cherry Filling

Now comes the fun part! Spoon the cherry pie filling over the batter, spreading it gently to cover the surface.

Step 6: Top with Remaining Batter

Using a spoon, dollop the remaining batter over the cherry filling. It doesn’t have to cover it completely; a little cherry peeking through adds charm!

Step 7: Bake

Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. The bars should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 20 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, slice, and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk about what’s in these Ruby Red Cherry Bars. Each serving (1 bar) has approximately:

• Calories: 210
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 2g
• Sugar: 15g

Remember, moderation is key. Enjoy these bars as a treat, and share them with your loved ones!

Healthier Alternatives

Looking to lighten up your Ruby Red Cherry Bars? Here are a few easy swaps you can make:

• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
• Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sweetener of your choice.
• Substitute applesauce for half of the butter to reduce fat content.

These alternatives don’t compromise on flavor, so you can enjoy a delicious treat with a healthier twist!

Serving Suggestions

Now that your Ruby Red Cherry Bars are ready, how can you serve them? Here are a few delightful ideas:

• Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Serve warm with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a decadent treat.
• Top with whipped cream and fresh cherries for a beautiful presentation.

Each option adds its own flair, making your dessert even more enjoyable!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best of us can make a few blunders in the kitchen. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of while making your Ruby Red Cherry Bars:

• Not measuring ingredients properly can lead to inconsistent results.
• Overmixing the batter can make your bars tough. Mix until just combined!
• Skipping the cooling time can make it hard to cut the bars neatly.

By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll ensure your bars turn out perfectly every time!

Storage Tips

Wondering how to store your delicious Ruby Red Cherry Bars? Here’s how:

• Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw before serving!

These tips will help maintain their freshness and flavor, so you can enjoy them whenever you crave a sweet treat!

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Ruby Red Cherry Bars are a delightful dessert that captures the essence of family cooking and seasonal flavors. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these bars as much as I do. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple family night in.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Absolutely! Just make sure to pit and chop them. You may need to adjust the sweetness as fresh cherries can be less sweet than pie filling.

How can I make these bars gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute for best results.

Can I add nuts or other fruits?

Definitely! Feel free to add chopped nuts or other fruits for a twist. Just keep in mind that it may slightly change the texture.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me today on this culinary journey! I hope you’re inspired to create these Ruby Red Cherry Bars in your own kitchen. Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and fun, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own. Happy baking!

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