Ingredients and Weight:
- 2 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) cold water
- 3 pounds (1.4kg) fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon (1.25ml) almond extract
Preparation Time:
30 minutes
Cooking Time:
45-50 minutes
Difficulty Level:
2/5
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, butter, and 1/2 cup sugar. Use your fingers to work the ingredients together until a crumbly dough forms. Add cold water and mix until dough comes together.
- Press dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the crust bakes, make the cherry filling. In a medium bowl, combine cherries, 1 cup sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and almond extract. Toss to combine.
- Remove the crust from the oven and spread the cherry filling over it.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and thickened.
- Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 20g
Dish Characteristics:
- Tart and sweet cherry filling complemented by a buttery, flaky crust.
- Can be served warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
- Perfect for a romantic dessert or a special occasion.
User Comments:
- "These were the best cherry bars I've ever had! The crust was so flaky and the filling was perfectly tart."
- "I loved the combination of cherry and almond flavors. It was a unique and delicious treat."
- "The recipe was easy to follow and the bars turned out beautifully. I would definitely make them again."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Pit the cherries before adding them to the filling to avoid bitterness.
- If the crust is too dry, add a little more water.
- If the filling is too thick, add a little more cherry juice.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
