Do you have a craving for a delightful treat that perfectly balances the savory goodness of cheddar cheese with the sweetness of ripe fruits? Look no further than our divine Cheddar Fruit Bars recipe! These bars are a delightful addition to any brunch spread, afternoon tea, or dessert table. They are easy to make and are sure to impress your guests with their unique combination of flavors. Let’s dive into making these scrumptious Cheddar Fruit Bars.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup cold water
– 1 cup mixed fresh fruits (such as berries, peaches, or plums), diced
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, butter, cheddar cheese, sugar, and salt. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to blend the ingredients until they resemble coarse crumbs.
3. In a small bowl, beat the egg and cold water together. Pour this mixture into the flour and cheese mixture. Stir until the dough comes together, but be careful not to overmix.
4. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Press one part of the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, making sure it forms an even layer.
5. Spread the diced fruits over the dough in the baking dish. You can arrange the fruits in a pattern or simply scatter them evenly.
6. Take the second part of the dough and crumble it over the top of the fruit layer. The dough doesn’t have to cover the fruit entirely; a rustic appearance is perfectly fine.
7. Bake the Cheddar Fruit Bars in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit filling is bubbly.
8. Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing into bars.
9. Once cooled slightly, slice the bars into squares or rectangles. Serve the Cheddar Fruit Bars warm or at room temperature, and enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack or dessert.
These Cheddar Fruit Bars are a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you serve them as a special treat for guests or enjoy them as a cozy snack at home, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to bake up a batch of these scrumptious bars for a delicious addition to any occasion.
