Cherry Christmas Slices are a festive and colorful treat that brings the holiday spirit to your dessert table. These buttery, shortbread-like bars are studded with bright red and green candied cherries, making them as visually appealing as they are delicious. With a tender, crumbly texture and a sweet, almond-infused flavor, these slices are perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, parties, or as a delightful addition to your Christmas cookie platter. Easy to make and full of nostalgic charm, Cherry Christmas Slices are sure to become a cherished holiday tradition in your home.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup red candied cherries, chopped
- 1/2 cup green candied cherries, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, such as pecans or almonds)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg and extracts: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Incorporate the cherries and nuts: Fold in the chopped red and green candied cherries and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Shape and bake: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and slice: Allow the Cherry Christmas Slices to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into slices or squares.
- Serve: Arrange the Cherry Christmas Slices on a festive platter and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
Cherry Christmas Slices are a beautiful and delicious holiday treat that captures the joy and colors of the season. With their rich, buttery flavor and vibrant cherry pieces, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them!
