Get ready to transform your ordinary baking routine into an extraordinary culinary adventure! These Maraschino Cherry Sugar Cookie Bars are not just a dessert—they're a delightful experience that combines the classic comfort of sugar cookies with the vibrant, sweet-tart burst of maraschino cherries. Perfect for summer gatherings, weekend treats, or when you simply need a mood-lifting sweet bite, these bars promise to be the showstopper that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup maraschino cherries, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate vanilla extract and mix until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Gently fold in the chopped maraschino cherries, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Transfer the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a smooth surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 24-27 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour.
- Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the cookie bars out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board.
- Cut into 24 equal bars using a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted—this creates the perfect creamy texture.
- Don't overmix the dough; this can lead to tough, dense bars instead of tender, soft ones.
- Pat the chopped maraschino cherries dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture in the batter.
- Use parchment paper overhang for easy removal and clean cutting of bars.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting to maintain their structure.
- For extra flair, consider dusting the cooled bars with powdered sugar or drizzling with a light glaze.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and soft texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 45mg
