Irresistible Ruby Red Cherry Bars – A Sweet Treat Delight

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever tasted a dessert that makes your taste buds dance? Ruby Red Cherry Bars offer a delightful burst of tart cherry flavor, combined with a sweet, buttery crust that melts in your mouth. This treat is not just visually appealing with its vibrant red hue; it also delivers a satisfying texture that balances crunchy and chewy elements perfectly.

As I recall the first time I savored these ruby delights, I can still feel the warmth of the summer sun on my skin and hear laughter echoing from family gatherings. These bars have a special place in my heart, often gracing our picnic tables during sunny afternoons or holiday celebrations. The combination of fresh cherries and a hint of almond creates an irresistible aroma that draws everyone in. As you prepare to make Ruby Red Cherry Bars, anticipate an amazing flavor experience that will impress your friends and family at any occasion.

Key Ingredients For Ruby Red Cherry Bars

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Cherries: Look for ripe, firm cherries without blemishes for the best flavor and color.
• Granulated Sugar: This sweetener balances the tartness of the cherries, enhancing their natural flavors.
• All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating the crust and giving structure to the bars.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness of your bars.
• Almond Extract: A small amount adds depth to the flavor profile, complementing the cherries beautifully.
• Eggs: These provide moisture and help bind all ingredients together for a rich texture.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Ruby Red Cherry Bars

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly with nonstick cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper.

Second Step : Mix the Crust Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, and flour. Stir until well mixed. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish to form a crust.

Third Step : Prepare the Cherry Filling

In another bowl, mix pitted and halved fresh cherries with sugar and almond extract. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the cherries to release their juices.

Fourth Step : Combine Everything

Spread the cherry mixture evenly over the crust you previously prepared.

Fifth Step : Bake

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cherry filling is bubbly and slightly set.

Finally Step : Cool and Serve

Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into squares. Serve at room temperature or chill them for a refreshing treat.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Cherries: Fresh cherries yield better flavor compared to canned or frozen options.
• Chill Before Serving: For an even tastier experience, chill them for an hour before serving; this enhances their refreshing quality.
• Add Nuts for Crunch: Consider adding chopped almonds or walnuts into your filling for added texture and flavor contrast.

Presentation Ideas

This Ruby Red Cherry Bars is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a luscious touch to your Ruby Red Cherry Bars. It complements the tartness of cherries and provides a creamy contrast that enhances the overall taste.
• Ice Cream: Serve your Ruby Red Cherry Bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream creates a delightful combination, making each bite even more enjoyable.
• Dusting of Powdered Sugar: For a simple yet elegant presentation, sprinkle powdered sugar over the top of your Ruby Red Cherry Bars. This not only looks appealing but adds a hint of sweetness without overwhelming the cherry flavor.

Storage Tips

To keep your Ruby Red Cherry Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat slightly in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

Ruby Red Cherry Bars can be served as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack. Pair these bars with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. They also make an excellent addition to picnics or potlucks where they are sure to be a hit among guests. For added flair, try serving them alongside fresh fruit or nuts for texture contrast.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Ruby Red Cherry Bars provides essential nutrients along with delicious flavors. Cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins while also being low in calories. By using whole grain flour and natural sweeteners, you enhance the nutritional profile of these bars, making them a wholesome option for dessert lovers.

FAQs

What makes Ruby Red Cherry Bars unique?

Ruby Red Cherry Bars stand out due to their vibrant color and deliciously tart flavor profile from fresh cherries. The combination of buttery crust and juicy filling creates a delightful contrast that appeals to both cherry lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike. Additionally, this recipe allows for customization; you can add spices like cinnamon or almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.

Can I substitute ingredients in Ruby Red Cherry Bars?

Yes, you can substitute various ingredients in your Ruby Red Cherry Bars for dietary preferences or availability. For instance, if you’re looking for gluten-free options, use almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour. You may also swap granulated sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for a healthier alternative without compromising taste.

How do I know when my Ruby Red Cherry Bars are done baking?

To ensure your Ruby Red Cherry Bars are perfectly baked, look for a golden brown crust around the edges while the center should be set but still slightly jiggly when you gently shake the pan. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, indicating that they’re ready to be taken out of the oven.

Can I use frozen cherries for my Ruby Red Cherry Bars?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work well in Ruby Red Cherry Bars and can be just as tasty as fresh ones. Just ensure you thaw and drain any excess juice before mixing them into your batter to avoid making the filling too runny. This way, you’ll maintain that perfect texture and flavor balance while enjoying your delicious cherry bars!

Print

Ruby Red Cherry Bars

• Author: christina
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Ruby Red Cherry Bars are a sweet and tart treat that combines the vibrant flavor of fresh cherries with a buttery crust. Perfect for summer picnics or holiday gatherings, these bars offer a delightful balance of chewy and crunchy textures. With each bite, you’ll experience the juicy cherry filling paired with a hint of almond, making it an irresistible dessert that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 2 large eggs

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix melted butter, sugar, and flour until well combined. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. In another bowl, combine cherries with sugar and almond extract. Let sit for about 10 minutes.
4. Spread the cherry mixture over the crust.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the filling is bubbly and slightly set.
6. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 85mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: For added texture, consider mixing in chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds into the cherry filling. Chill the bars for an hour before serving for a refreshing twist.