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Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup flour, ½ cup granulated sugar, softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until crumbly and well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Cherry Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cherry pie filling, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract (if using). Stir until well combined.
- Assemble the Bars: Spread the cherry filling evenly over the baked crust.
- Make the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the rolled oats, brown sugar, ¼ cup flour, cinnamon, and melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the cherry filling.
- Bake Again: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Fresh Cherries: If you prefer using fresh cherries, you can make your own filling by pitting and cooking them down with a bit of sugar and cornstarch until thickened.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the recipe for Cherry Bars, it’s time to gather your ingredients and whip up this delightful treat! With their sweet and tart flavors, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Don’t forget to save this recipe—it’s a delicious dessert you’ll want to return to time and again.
Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Feel free to modify any details or add your personal touches!
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