Craving a dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors? Look no further than our delightful recipe for Sour Cherry Lemon Bars. These scrumptious treats are a perfect combination of zesty lemon and tangy sour cherries, all atop a buttery shortbread crust. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a tasty treat for yourself, these bars are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into making these delectable Sour Cherry Lemon Bars!
**Sour Cherry Lemon Bars**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1 cup frozen sour cherries, thawed
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter to the mixture, and using a pastry cutter or fork, blend the ingredients until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Press the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish in an even layer. Bake the crust for 15-18 minutes until lightly golden brown.
4. While the crust is baking, prepare the lemon-cherry filling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, baking powder, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
5. Gently fold in the thawed sour cherries, being careful not to break them apart too much. The cherries will add a burst of fruity flavor to the bars.
6. Once the crust is baked, pour the lemon-cherry filling over the warm crust, spreading it out into an even layer.
7. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly golden brown.
8. Remove the Sour Cherry Lemon Bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan before slicing. For cleaner cuts, refrigerate the bars for an hour before slicing them into squares.
9. Dust the bars with powdered sugar just before serving for a beautiful finishing touch. These bars are best enjoyed chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Delight your taste buds with the perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors in these Sour Cherry Lemon Bars. The crispy shortbread crust, luscious lemon filling, and juicy sour cherries create a mouthwatering combination that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you serve them at a brunch or a cozy afternoon tea, these bars are a lovely treat for any occasion. Enjoy the bright, refreshing flavors of summer with every bite of these delicious homemade bars!
