Cherry Dessert Bars with Icing Drizzle
Introduction:
Cherry dessert bars are a delightful treat, combining the sweet and tart flavor of cherries with a soft, chewy base and a sweet, silky drizzle of icing on top. They’re perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to a special treat after dinner. This dessert balances the natural flavor of cherries with a buttery, tender bar, making it an instant favorite.
History:
The concept of fruit-filled bars has been around for centuries. The idea of combining fruits with a crust-like base can be traced back to the traditional European cobbler and crumble desserts. Over time, fruit bars like these cherry dessert bars gained popularity in North America as a quick and easy way to enjoy fruit-filled sweets. The addition of icing drizzle gives a modern, indulgent touch to this classic dessert.
Ingredients:
For the Bars:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh or canned cherries (pitted and chopped)
For the Icing Drizzle:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare the bars:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together until creamy and light.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until fully combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped cherries.
- Bake the bars:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
- Make the icing drizzle:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and thick enough to drizzle.
- Drizzle the icing:
- Once the bars have cooled, drizzle the icing generously over the top.
Methods:
- Mixing: Be sure to mix the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately to ensure an even texture.
- Folding: Gently fold the cherries into the batter to avoid crushing them and release too much juice.
- Baking: Keep an eye on the bars towards the end of the baking time, as oven temperatures may vary. Don’t overbake, as this can make the bars dry.
Benefits:
- Rich in Vitamin C: Cherries are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, which supports the immune system.
- Energy Boosting: The sugar and butter in the bars provide a quick source of energy, perfect for a pick-me-up.
- Delicious and Satisfying: This treat satisfies a sweet tooth with a fruit-forward taste and soft texture, making it a better option than heavily processed desserts.
Formation:
These cherry dessert bars come together with minimal effort. The base is simple to prepare, and the icing drizzle adds an elegant touch. This recipe works well with either fresh or canned cherries, depending on what’s available. The smooth, buttery flavor of the bars contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cherries and the creamy icing on top, making each bite irresistible.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
- Vitamin C: 10% of the daily recommended intake (from cherries)
Conclusion:
Cherry dessert bars with icing drizzle are a must-try treat for those who love a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors. The soft, chewy bars paired with the sweet icing make for an indulgent dessert that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re enjoying them after dinner or serving them at a family gathering, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. These bars are a testament to the timeless appeal of fruit-based desserts, offering both flavor and nutrition in every bite.
Lovers of this dessert will appreciate its versatility and simplicity. It’s a wonderful option for anyone craving a light but satisfying treat, and the addition of cherries only enhances its deliciousness. Perfect for anyone looking for a sweet, homemade indulgence that doesn’t take too long to make!