Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars

Name: Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 85 min
Yield: 12 bars
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1/2 cup icing sugar (sifted); 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 jar maraschino cherries (drained and chopped); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

85 min 12 bars Medium

All Recipes

Delightful maraschino cherry shortbread bars with a buttery base and sweet cherry filling.

Prep

20 min

Cook

35 min

Total

85 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Maraschino cherry shortbread bars are a delightful twist on classic shortbread, combining the buttery texture of the base with the sweet, juicy flavour of maraschino cherries. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweetness and richness, making it a favourite for both casual and festive occasions. The combination of maraschino cherries with the crumbly shortbread creates a vibrant and colourful dessert that's both visually appealing and delicious. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering or simply want to treat yourself to something special, these bars are sure to impress.

Instructions

Prepare the baking dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9 inch (23x23 cm) baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal.

Pro tip: Use metal clips to hold parchment in place for easy pouring and spreading.

Make the shortbread base

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and icing sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until combined. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Pro tip: Chill the dough for 10 minutes in the fridge before pressing.

Bake the shortbread base

Bake the shortbread base in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the cherry filling

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped maraschino cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure cherries are well-drained to prevent a runny filling.

Assemble the bars

Spread the cherry filling evenly over the baked shortbread base.

Bake the bars

Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is slightly golden.

Cool and slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift them out of the pan and onto a cutting board. Slice into 12 bars.

Pro tip: For clean slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.

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Tips & Tricks

Use high-quality maraschino cherries for the best flavour.
Chill the dough to make it easier to handle.
Line the baking dish with parchment for easy removal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are maraschino cherry shortbread bars?

Maraschino cherry shortbread bars are a dessert featuring a buttery shortbread base topped with a sweet cherry filling made from maraschino cherries.

How long do maraschino cherry shortbread bars last?

These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze maraschino cherry shortbread bars?

Yes, you can freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

What is the best way to slice shortbread bars cleanly?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to ensure clean slices.

How many calories are in a maraschino cherry shortbread bar?

Each bar contains approximately 180 calories.

What can I pair with maraschino cherry shortbread bars?

They pair well with tea, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Serving Suggestions

Serve maraschino cherry shortbread bars as a delightful snack with tea or coffee, or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. These bars can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe container.