CHERRY BARS FOR A CROWD

These Cherry Bars are perfect for feeding a large group, combining a buttery crust with a sweet cherry filling. They are easy to make and delicious, making them ideal for parties, potlucks, or any gathering.

Ingredients:

Crust and Topping:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Cherry Filling:

• 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling

Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 2-3 tablespoons milk

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust and Topping

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15×10-inch baking pan or a half-sheet pan.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Extracts:
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using).
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

Step 2: Assemble and Bake

6. Spread Batter:
   • Spread about two-thirds of the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
7. Add Cherry Filling:
   • Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the batter.
8. Top with Remaining Batter:
   • Drop the remaining batter by spoonfuls over the cherry filling. It doesn’t need to cover completely; some of the cherry filling will show through.
9. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
10. Cool:
    • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 3: Prepare the Glaze

11. Make Glaze:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and 2 tablespoons of milk. Add more milk as needed to achieve a drizzling consistency.
12. Drizzle Glaze:
    • Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.

Step 4: Serve

13. Cut and Serve:
    • Once the glaze is set, cut the cherry bars into squares or rectangles and serve.

Tips:

• Variations: You can substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings like blueberry, apple, or raspberry for different flavors.
• Storage: Store the cherry bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
• Make-Ahead: These bars can be made a day in advance. Just wait to drizzle the glaze until shortly before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Cherry Bars, perfect for any crowd!