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Sour Cherry Almond Bars

Sour Cherry Almond Bars are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cherries with the rich flavor of almonds. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or a sweet snack at home. The chewy almond base and the luscious sour cherry jam create a mouth-watering combination that will keep everyone coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple steps and common ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
  • Delicious Flavor: The tart cherry filling pairs perfectly with the sweet almond base, delivering a balanced taste that’s hard to resist.
  • Versatile Dessert: Enjoy these bars as an afternoon snack, dessert after dinner, or even as a treat in lunchboxes.
  • Great for Sharing: With 20 bars in one batch, they are perfect for parties or potlucks where you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Make Ahead: These bars store well, allowing you to prepare them in advance and enjoy them throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating delicious Sour Cherry Almond Bars.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • 9×13 inch baking pan
  • Parchment paper (optional)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

  • 9×13 inch baking pan: This size is ideal for creating thick bars that bake evenly while providing enough room for your ingredients.
  • Electric mixer or whisk: A mixer helps incorporate air into your batter, resulting in light and fluffy bars. If you prefer mixing by hand, use a whisk for good results.
  • Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down bowls and folding ingredients gently without deflating your mixture.
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Ingredients

To make these delightful Sour Cherry Almond Bars, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 2 packed cups brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tsp almond extract
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 2 cups all purpose flour
  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds

For the Topping

  • 12 ounces sour cherry jam

How to Make Sour Cherry Almond Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough when you put your bars in.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides. This will help lift out the bars later. If you don’t have parchment paper, lightly butter or spray the pan.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in one large egg along with almond extract and baking powder until well combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

With your mixer on low speed:
1. Gradually add all-purpose flour one cup at a time.
2. Mix in rolled oats.
Finish by folding in sliced almonds using a rubber spatula.

Step 6: Assemble the Base Layer

Set aside 2/3 cup of dough for topping later. Press the remaining dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Make sure it covers the entire surface.

Step 7: Spread Cherry Jam

Evenly spread sour cherry jam over the dough base layer.

Step 8: Add Topping Crumbles

Crumble the reserved dough over the jam layer in small pieces to cover it slightly.

Step 9: Bake

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes or until the topping turns golden brown.

Step 10: Cool and Cut

Allow bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift them out using parchment overhang and cut into squares. Enjoy your delicious Sour Cherry Almond Bars!

How to Serve Sour Cherry Almond Bars

Sour Cherry Almond Bars are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these bars are versatile enough to suit any occasion.

With Whipped Cream

  • Top each bar with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for a light and airy contrast to the tart cherry filling.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

  • Serve warm Sour Cherry Almond Bars with a scoop of vanilla or almond ice cream. The creaminess pairs perfectly with the tartness.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

  • Add a decadent touch by drizzling melted chocolate over the bars just before serving. This enhances the flavor and makes them even more indulgent.

Paired with Fresh Fruit

  • Complement your bars with slices of fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries. Their natural sweetness balances the tart cherries nicely.

Alongside Coffee or Tea

  • Enjoy Sour Cherry Almond Bars with your favorite coffee or tea. The flavors enhance each other, making it a perfect afternoon treat.

How to Perfect Sour Cherry Almond Bars

To ensure your Sour Cherry Almond Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

  • Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

  • Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding flour and oats. Overmixing can lead to tough bars.

  • Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on your bars as they bake. Ovens vary, so start checking around 30 minutes to avoid overbaking.

  • Let Them Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out for cutting. This helps maintain their shape.

Best Side Dishes for Sour Cherry Almond Bars

Sour Cherry Almond Bars can be paired with several side dishes to create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some suggestions:

  1. Fresh Fruit Salad
    A medley of seasonal fruits adds freshness and complements the tartness of the bars.

  2. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait
    Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side that contrasts beautifully with the bars.

  3. Cheese Plate
    A selection of cheeses, such as brie and goat cheese, provides savory notes that balance the sweetness of the dessert.

  4. Nutty Granola
    Serve crunchy nutty granola on the side for added texture and flavor that pairs well with cherry.

  5. Caramel Sauce
    A small bowl of warm caramel sauce allows guests to dip their bars, adding an extra layer of sweetness.

  6. Minted Peas
    For an unexpected yet delightful pairing, try serving minted peas as a fresh accompaniment; their brightness enhances the overall flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make a big difference in achieving the perfect Sour Cherry Almond Bars. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

  • Skipping the parchment paper: Not using parchment paper makes it difficult to lift the bars out for cutting. Always line your pan with parchment for easy removal.

  • Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough bars. Mix just until combined, and finish by hand to keep the texture tender.

  • Ignoring the oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature may cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary.

  • Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin the balance of flavors and textures. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for dry and wet ingredients separately.

  • Cutting too soon: Allowing the bars to cool in the pan ensures they set properly. Cutting them too early can lead to messy pieces.

  • Forgetting to fold in the almonds: Neglecting this step will result in uneven nut distribution. Make sure to fold them in gently for a balanced bite.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store Sour Cherry Almond Bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Keep them wrapped or covered with plastic wrap if you don’t have a container.

Freezing Sour Cherry Almond Bars

  • Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
  • They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sour Cherry Almond Bars

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350F, place bars on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat individual bars on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds until warm.
  • Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm slowly while checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Sour Cherry Almond Bars that may help enhance your experience.

Can I use fresh sour cherries instead of jam?

Yes, using fresh sour cherries is possible! Just cook them down with sugar until they reach a jam-like consistency before spreading them on the bars.

How do I know when my Sour Cherry Almond Bars are done?

Look for a golden top and firm edges; they should spring back slightly when touched. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean with just a few crumbs.

Can I customize my Sour Cherry Almond Bars?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other nuts or even chocolate chips for extra flavor. Adjusting the sweetness with more or less sugar is also an option.

What can I serve with Sour Cherry Almond Bars?

Pair these delightful bars with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an added touch of indulgence. They also pair nicely with coffee or tea!

Final Thoughts

Sour Cherry Almond Bars are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or snack, these bars can be customized with various nuts or fruits based on your preference. Give this recipe a try, and delight your friends and family with these sweet-tart treats!

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Sour Cherry Almond Bars

Sour Cherry Almond Bars


  • Author: Laura Milligan
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: About 20 servings 1x

Description

Sour Cherry Almond Bars are a delightful fusion of tart cherry jam and chewy almond goodness, perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to a sweet afternoon snack. These bars are not only easy to make but also versatile enough to be enjoyed as dessert or packed in lunchboxes. The combination of rich almonds and sour cherries creates a mouth-watering treat that will keep everyone coming back for more. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these delicious bars that store well for later enjoyment. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed cold with coffee, these Sour Cherry Almond Bars are sure to impress!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 2 packed cups brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tsp almond extract
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 2 cups all purpose flour
  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds
  • 12 ounces sour cherry jam

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream together room temperature unsalted butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in one egg, almond extract, and baking powder until well combined. Gradually mix in flour and rolled oats, then fold in sliced almonds.
  4. Reserve 2/3 cup of the dough for topping. Press the remaining dough into the prepared pan to form the base layer.
  5. Spread sour cherry jam evenly over the base layer, then crumble the reserved dough on top.
  6. Bake for about 35 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar (50g)
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: For a twist, substitute sour cherry jam with raspberry or blueberry preserves. Store bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze individually for up to 3 months.

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