The holiday season is the perfect time to spread joy and warmth through delicious homemade treats. One delightful recipe that is sure to impress your guests is the Holiday Cherry Squares. These delightful bars are a wonderful combination of sweet, tart cherries and buttery crust. They are a festive addition to any holiday gathering or simply enjoyed with a cup of tea on a cozy evening by the fireplace.
Title: Holiday Cherry Squares
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1 cup cherry preserves or jam
– 1/2 cup dried cherries
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Take about 1 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture and set it aside for the topping.
5. Press the remaining crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the cherry preserves and dried cherries. Spread this mixture evenly over the crust.
7. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the top of the cherry layer.
8. Scatter the sliced almonds over the crumb topping, pressing them lightly into the mixture.
9. Bake the Holiday Cherry Squares in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
10. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.
These Holiday Cherry Squares are an irresistible combination of sweet and tart flavors, perfect for the festive season. Make a batch to share with loved ones or package them up as a thoughtful homemade gift. These bars will surely become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire. Enjoy the joy of baking and sharing treats with those you care about this season.
