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304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
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!
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.
To make these delightful Sour Cherry Almond Bars, gather the following ingredients:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough when you put your bars in.
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.
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.
Beat in one large egg along with almond extract and baking powder until well combined.
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.
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.
Evenly spread sour cherry jam over the dough base layer.
Crumble the reserved dough over the jam layer in small pieces to cover it slightly.
Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes or until the topping turns golden brown.
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!
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.
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.
Sour Cherry Almond Bars can be paired with several side dishes to create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some suggestions:
Fresh Fruit Salad
A medley of seasonal fruits adds freshness and complements the tartness of the bars.
Vanilla Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side that contrasts beautifully with the bars.
Cheese Plate
A selection of cheeses, such as brie and goat cheese, provides savory notes that balance the sweetness of the dessert.
Nutty Granola
Serve crunchy nutty granola on the side for added texture and flavor that pairs well with cherry.
Caramel Sauce
A small bowl of warm caramel sauce allows guests to dip their bars, adding an extra layer of sweetness.
Minted Peas
For an unexpected yet delightful pairing, try serving minted peas as a fresh accompaniment; their brightness enhances the overall flavor profile.
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.
Here are some common questions about Sour Cherry Almond Bars that may help enhance your experience.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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!
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!
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.