INGREDIENTS NEEDED:
FOR THE CRUST:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
FOR THE CHERRY FILLING:
2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
FOR THE GLAZE:
1 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
PREPARATION:
1st Step:
Turn the temperature on the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Prepare a baking pan measuring 9 by 13 inches with butter and put it aside.
2nd Step:
In a bowl, cream together the butter that has been softened, the granulated sugar, and the salt until the mixture is frothy and light. Mix while adding the flour in increments until the dough begins to come together. Apply uniform pressure to the dough, then spread it out on the bottom of the baking pan that has been prepared.
3rd Step:
Put the chopped cherries, the granulated sugar, the cornstarch, the lemon juice, and the almond essence into a saucepan and mix well. Keep swirling the mixture while it cooks over medium heat until it begins to thicken and the cherries begin to release their juices. The time required for this is often between 5 and 7 minutes. Take the filling off the stove and let it cool down a little bit.
4th Step:
The cherry filling should be distributed evenly over the pie dough in the baking dish. Bake in an oven that has been warmed for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust has a golden brown color around the edges.
5th Step:
To make a completely smooth glaze, combine the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla essence in a small dish and whisk together. Sprinkle the glaze all over the Cherry Bars while they are still heated. Before cutting the bars into squares, you should give them enough time to totally cool in the pan.
TIPS AND VARIATIONS:
If fresh cherries are not available, you can use frozen cherries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using.
For added texture, you can sprinkle some chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, on top of the cherry filling before baking.
Serve the Cherry Bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be refrigerated for longer shelf life.
