Serving Christmas Cherry Bars can be a joyous affair in itself. They can be presented as a standalone treat, dusted lightly with powdered sugar to evoke a winter wonderland aesthetic, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delectable contrast. For a touch of extravagance, drizzle a bit of dark chocolate over the top before serving. A cup of hot cocoa, spiced cider, or a glass of milk would complement the sweet tartness of the cherries beautifully, forging a quintessential holiday flavor palette. These bars also pair splendidly with savory nibbles or finger sandwiches if included as part of a larger holiday buffet or tea time spread.

Recipe Name: Christmas Cherry Bars

Ingredients:1 cup of butter, softened

2 cups of sugar

4 eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp salt

1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling

For the glaze (optional):

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tbsp milk

½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.

Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture and mix well.

Prepare the Base: Spread 3 cups of batter evenly into the prepared pan.

Add Cherry Filling: Carefully spread the cherry pie filling over the batter.

Top Layer: Drop the remaining batter in small clumps over the filling.

Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool: Cool completely on a wire rack.

Vanilla Glaze (Optional)

Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Drizzle: Once the cherry bars are completely cooled, drizzle the vanilla glaze over them.

Serve: Cut into bars and serve after the glaze has set.

Enjoy these scrumptious Christmas Cherry Bars as a festive highlight to your holiday season!