When it comes to holiday baking, few desserts capture the festive spirit quite like Christmas Cherry Bars. With their rich buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these bars are more than just a treat—they’re a Christmas tradition. Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, hosting a party, or simply craving something festive and sweet, this recipe is sure to shine on your dessert table. The best part? These bars are incredibly easy to make, even for beginners.
Looking for more festive sweets? Learn more about Christmas Pinwheel Cookies Recipe to add even more color to your cookie platter.
Table of Contents
Key Ingredients for Perfect Christmas Cherry Bars
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating the best Christmas Cherry Bars starts with a handful of pantry staples that come together in perfect harmony. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—rich, buttery, and perfectly sweet with a festive cherry twist.
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Christmas Cherry Bars: The Ultimate Holiday Dessert for Every Sweet Tooth
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 24 Bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive and buttery dessert featuring a cherry pie filling and vanilla glaze — a Christmas favorite for every occasion.
Ingredients
1 cup butter (softened)
2 cups sugar
4 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Optional Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp milk, ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
3. Combine flour and salt, add to the mix.
4. Spread 3 cups of batter in the pan, layer with cherry pie filling.
5. Drop remaining batter on top.
6. Bake 35–40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Cool, drizzle with glaze, slice, and serve.
Notes
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Perfect for gifting or adding to dessert trays.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Christmas Cherry Bars from Scratch
Preparing the Batter the Right Way
- Preheat and Prepare – Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Cream Butter and Sugar – In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened butter and 2 cups sugar until light and fluffy. This step ensures a tender, buttery texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla – Beat in 4 eggs, one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. This gives the batter its smooth, rich consistency.
- Combine Dry Ingredients – In another bowl, whisk 3 cups of flour and 1 teaspoon salt. Gradually fold into the creamed mixture until just combined—overmixing can lead to dense bars.
Assembling and Baking the Layers
- Layer the Batter – Spread three cups of batter evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
- Add Cherry Filling – Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the first layer.
- Add Topping Batter – Drop small clumps of the remaining batter over the cherries. It’s okay if some filling peeks through—this creates a beautiful marbled finish.
- Bake to Perfection – Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooling and Glazing
- Cool Completely – Place the pan on a wire rack and allow the bars to cool fully before adding the glaze.
- Add Optional Glaze – In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp milk, and ½ tsp vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bars.
- Cut and Serve – Once the glaze sets, cut into even bars and serve at room temperature.
These Christmas Cherry Bars not only taste heavenly but also look festive enough for any Christmas party. Check out Christmas Tree Cake Truffles Recipe for another colorful and easy holiday dessert.
What Are Christmas Cherry Bars and Why They’re a Holiday Favorite
The Festive Origin of Christmas Cherry Bars
The Christmas Cherry Bar traces its roots back to classic American holiday baking traditions. Families have long cherished these colorful bars as a staple dessert for Christmas gatherings. Originally inspired by cherry shortbread and jam bars, this recipe quickly became a holiday favorite because of its simplicity, vibrant red hue, and delightful sweetness that complements every Christmas table. Over the years, bakers have added their own spins, from almond extracts to white chocolate drizzles, making the cherry bar both nostalgic and modern.
What makes them truly stand out is the bright red cherry filling—symbolizing the warmth, love, and cheer of the season. When you bring a tray of these bars to your holiday party, you’re not just serving dessert; you’re sharing a piece of Christmas joy.
Why These Bars Stand Out Among Holiday Treats
Unlike cookies that require shaping or cakes that need precise timing, Christmas Cherry Bars offer a perfect balance between convenience and flavor. Their soft crust, luscious cherry topping, and subtle almond aroma make them irresistible. The combination of colors—ruby red cherries against a buttery golden base—makes them a festive centerpiece that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
In a sea of traditional cookies, pies, and fudge, cherry bars stand out for their versatility. You can serve them as bite-sized bars, gift them in treat boxes, or even use them as part of a holiday dessert buffet. Don’t miss our Christmas Macarons Recipe
Creative Variations and Add-Ins for Christmas Cherry Bars
Fun Flavor Twists You Can Try
The beauty of Christmas Cherry Bars is how adaptable they are. Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, the fun really begins. You can easily switch up the flavors to make these bars even more exciting for your holiday gatherings. Whether you want extra sweetness, crunch, or color, here are some irresistible variations to try this Christmas season.
- Almond Cherry Bars:
Add ½ teaspoon of almond extract to your batter for a subtle nutty flavor that perfectly complements cherries. Top with sliced almonds for a crunchy finish. - White Chocolate Drizzle:
Melt ½ cup of white chocolate chips and drizzle them over the cooled bars for an elegant holiday touch. The creamy white chocolate pairs beautifully with the tangy cherry filling. - Coconut Cherry Bliss Bars:
Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded coconut over the cherry layer before baking. It adds texture and a hint of tropical flavor that still feels festive. - Double Cherry Bars:
Love cherries? Add chopped maraschino cherries directly into the batter before spreading it in the pan for a burst of extra color and sweetness in every bite. - Cranberry-Cherry Fusion Bars:
Mix dried cranberries with the cherry pie filling to create a slightly tart, deeper flavor profile—a twist that feels perfectly in tune with Christmas flavors. - Chocolate Cherry Delight:
Replace ¼ cup of flour with cocoa powder and swirl in a few dark chocolate chunks. You’ll get a richer, brownie-like bar with a gorgeous cherry contrast.
Looking for more dessert inspiration? Don’t miss our Blue Christmas Truffles for a sophisticated bite-sized treat that pairs beautifully with these bars on any dessert tray.
Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Healthier Options
If you or your guests follow special diets, you don’t have to miss out on the festive flavor of Christmas Cherry Bars. Here are simple swaps that keep the taste while making the recipe accessible for everyone.
Vegan Version:
- Replace butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil.
- Use a flaxseed egg substitute (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
- Opt for plant-based milk in the glaze.
Gluten-Free Version:
- Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend (with xanthan gum).
- Check that your cherry pie filling and extracts are gluten-free certified.
Reduced Sugar Option:
- Cut sugar by one-third or use coconut sugar for a caramel-like depth.
- Choose no-sugar-added cherry pie filling for a lighter option.
These modifications make Christmas Cherry Bars inclusive, ensuring that everyone—whether vegan, gluten-free, or health-conscious—can enjoy this holiday favorite without compromise.
Discover great ideas like Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake for a light, comforting drink to pair with your sweet treats.
Why Customizing This Recipe Works
Experimenting with your cherry bars allows you to create desserts that reflect your family’s taste and traditions. Each variation adds a personal touch that keeps the recipe exciting year after year. Plus, when you switch up textures and colors, your dessert platter looks even more festive—perfect for photos and social media shares!
Want another healthier but indulgent option? Discover great ideas like our Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake — a light, comforting dessert that pairs perfectly with your sweet treats.
Decorating and Serving Ideas for Christmas Cherry Bars
Festive Presentation Tips
When it comes to presentation, Christmas Cherry Bars are already stunning on their own, thanks to their golden crust and glossy cherry topping. But with a few small touches, you can elevate them from simple homemade treats to a show-stopping holiday centerpiece.
- Dusting of Snow:
Lightly dust the bars with powdered sugar right before serving to create a “fresh snowfall” effect. It instantly gives your Christmas Cherry Bars a wintery look perfect for festive gatherings. - White Chocolate Drizzle:
For a professional bakery-style finish, drizzle melted white chocolate in thin zigzags across the top. It adds sweetness and a pretty visual contrast to the vibrant cherry filling. - Festive Sprinkles:
Add red, green, or gold sprinkles over the glaze while it’s still slightly wet. They’ll stick perfectly and sparkle under holiday lights. - Cut with Precision:
Once cooled, use a warm, sharp knife to cut your Christmas Cherry Bars into even squares. Clean the knife between cuts to keep the edges neat and photo-ready. - Holiday Trays and Liners:
Serve the bars on red or silver trays lined with parchment paper. For a charming touch, use holiday-themed cupcake liners to hold individual pieces.
If you’re looking for inspiration to design an impressive dessert table, check out 2-Ingredient Cherry Chocolate Cake — they pair beautifully with Christmas Cherry Bars and create a vibrant display of red, white, and green hues.
Pairing with Holiday Drinks
A beautifully presented tray of Christmas Cherry Bars deserves equally festive drink pairings. Whether you’re hosting a large family dinner or an intimate gathering, these beverage ideas bring the perfect complement to your sweet holiday dessert.
- Hot Cocoa with Marshmallows:
The creamy chocolate flavor of classic cocoa balances the fruity tartness of cherry bars. For a twist, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top. - Peppermint Latte:
The minty freshness of a peppermint latte contrasts perfectly with the buttery base of the bars, adding both comfort and holiday cheer. - Mulled Wine:
For adults, pair your Christmas Cherry Bars with a glass of warm mulled wine spiced with cloves, cinnamon, and orange zest. The rich flavors blend beautifully with cherry sweetness. - Vanilla Eggnog:
The creamy, spiced notes of eggnog enhance the vanilla glaze and buttery flavor of the bars, making it a luxurious pairing for Christmas Eve.
Don’t miss our Magical Candy Cane Cookies for another perfect pairing with your coffee or cocoa bar setup this holiday season.
Creating a Dessert Board
Why stop at one treat? Combine Christmas Cherry Bars with other festive desserts to create a Christmas dessert grazing board. Include small treats like Christmas Pinwheel Cookies, chocolate truffles, and sugared cranberries. Add a few bowls of nuts and mini marshmallows for variety and color. The mix of textures and hues will make your holiday table irresistible.
Serving Tips for the Perfect Presentation
- Serve at Room Temperature: Allow the bars to come to room temp for the best texture and flavor.
- Add a Scoop of Ice Cream: Pair warm bars with a scoop of vanilla or almond ice cream for a decadent twist.
- Gift Wrap for Sharing: Place bars in festive boxes lined with parchment and ribbon — perfect for neighbor or teacher gifts.
Christmas Cherry Bars aren’t just a dessert; they’re a centerpiece for your entire holiday experience. With a little creativity, they can turn a simple gathering into a magical celebration filled with color, warmth, and sweet memories.
FAQs About Christmas Cherry Bars
How do you make Christmas Cherry Bars from scratch?
To make Christmas Cherry Bars from scratch, start by creaming together butter and sugar, then beat in eggs and vanilla. Mix flour and salt, add to the creamed mixture, and spread part of the batter in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Layer with cherry pie filling and top with spoonfuls of remaining batter. Bake at 350°F for 35–40 minutes, cool completely, then drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze. The result? Buttery, cherry-filled bars that taste like the holidays in every bite.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Yes, you can! If you prefer a more natural fruit flavor, use fresh cherries. Simply cook them briefly with a bit of sugar and cornstarch to create a thick, jam-like consistency similar to cherry pie filling. However, maraschino cherries offer a sweeter, more vibrant red color that’s visually stunning for holiday desserts like Christmas Cherry Bars.
How should I store Christmas Cherry Bars to keep them fresh?
Store Christmas Cherry Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate them to extend freshness up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Before serving again, allow bars to come back to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Can Christmas Cherry Bars be frozen for later?
Absolutely! Once cooled, place your Christmas Cherry Bars in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature before adding glaze or powdered sugar.
Conclusion: Why Christmas Cherry Bars Deserve a Spot on Your Dessert Table
The holiday season wouldn’t be complete without the irresistible charm of Christmas Cherry Bars. With their buttery crust, ruby-red cherry filling, and delicate vanilla glaze, these bars embody everything we love about Christmas—warmth, joy, and sweetness. They’re easy to bake, perfect for sharing, and beautiful enough to grace any dessert spread.
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