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Cherry desserts hold a special place in the hearts of many food lovers. The irresistible combination of sweet and tart flavors, along with vibrant colors, makes cherries a standout ingredient in various culinary creations. From classic cherry pies to luscious tarts, cherries bring a burst of summer into every bite. Among these delightful treats, Sweet Cherry Bliss Bars emerge as a favorite, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures that make them ideal for any occasion.

Classic Cherry Pie Bars

Indulge in the delightful taste of Sweet Cherry Bliss Bars, where the sweet and tart flavors of cherries shine. These bars feature a buttery shortbread crust, a luscious cherry filling, and a crunchy crumble topping, creating the perfect balance of textures. Ideal for summer picnics or any celebration, they are sure to impress family and friends. Explore the simple recipe and tips to make these delicious cherry bars and savor a taste of summer in every bite.
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Ingredients
  

For the Shortbread Crust:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

For the Cherry Filling:

2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted

1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness of cherries)

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

For the Crumble Topping:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup rolled oats

1/3 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.

    Make the Shortbread Crust: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the almond extract, if using. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until combined. The dough will be crumbly but should hold together when pressed.

      Press the Crust: Press about two-thirds of the shortbread mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.

        Prepare the Cherry Filling: While the crust is baking, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

          Make the Crumble Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

            Assemble the Bars: Once the shortbread crust has cooled slightly, pour the cherry filling evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the cherry layer evenly.

              Bake the Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly.

                Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before transferring to the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour. Once set, slice into bars.

                  Serve: Enjoy your sweet cherry bliss bars plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 1 hr | 12 servings