Holiday Cherry Squares are a festive treat that brings joy to any gathering. With their delightful cherry flavor and soft, cake-like texture, these squares are sure to be a hit at your next holiday party or family get-together. The best part? They’re simple to make, using ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. So, whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, you’ll have no trouble whipping up a batch of these delicious squares that will impress everyone.
What You’ll Need for Holiday Cherry Squares
To make these delightful treats, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 115 g unsalted butter, softened
- 300 g granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 250 g all-purpose flour
- 1 (600 g) can cherry pie filling
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step Holiday Cherry Squares Recipe
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Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 15 x 10-inch rimmed jelly roll pan by greasing and flouring it to prevent sticking.
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Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until smooth, which should take about 2 minutes.
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Add eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, beat in the vanilla extract for that lovely flavor.
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Incorporate flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, stirring in by hand until the mixture is thoroughly combined and smooth.
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Spread the batter: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Lightly score the batter into 24 two-inch squares using a knife for easy serving later.
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Add cherry filling: Spoon 2-3 cherries from the cherry pie filling into the center of each scored square, making sure they look inviting.
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Bake: Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The squares are done when a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool and dust: Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lightly sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a beautiful finish.
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Cut and serve: Cut into squares along the scored lines and serve them on a platter for everyone to enjoy!
How to Serve Holiday Cherry Squares
When it comes to serving these delicious squares, there are several ways to make them even more special. You can serve them warm straight from the oven or allow them to cool and enjoy them chilled. They pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top, adding a creamy contrast to the fruity cherry flavor. For an added touch, consider a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the top for a fun twist!
Expert Tips for Holiday Cherry Squares
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Use fresh cherries: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can substitute the canned cherry pie filling with fresh pitted cherries. Just simmer them with a bit of sugar to create a quick cherry filling.
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Add nuts: For an extra crunch, toss in some chopped walnuts or almonds into the batter before baking.
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Experiment with flavors: Feel free to enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla for a nutty twist.
Holiday Cherry Squares FAQs
Q: Can I make these squares ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bake the squares a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll still be fresh and delicious.
Q: What can I use instead of cherry pie filling?
A: If cherries aren’t your favorite, you can substitute with any pie filling flavor you like, such as blueberry, raspberry, or even apple.
Q: How do I store leftover squares?
A: Any leftover squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or you can freeze them for later enjoyment.
With their delightful taste and festive appearance, Holiday Cherry Squares are sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking lineup. Give them a try, and watch everyone smile as they indulge in these fruity, sweet treats! Happy baking!