Holiday Cherry Squares are a delightful treat that is sure to bring joy to your festive gatherings. These sweet squares are soft, buttery, and bursting with cherry flavor, making them an ideal dessert for any celebration. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for the perfect potluck contribution, these treats will impress everyone. Plus, they’re easy to make, allowing you more time to enjoy your time with loved ones!
What Goes into This Holiday Cherry Squares
To make these delicious squares, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 1 (21 oz.) can cherry pie filling
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make Holiday Cherry Squares
Follow these easy steps to create your own Holiday Cherry Squares:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 15 x 10-inch rimmed jelly roll pan by greasing and flouring it.
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In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth, about 2 minutes.
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Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, beat in the vanilla extract.
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Gradually add the flour, stirring in by hand until thoroughly combined.
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Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Use a small sharp knife to lightly score the batter into 24 two-inch squares.
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Spoon 2-3 cherries from the cherry pie filling into the center of each scored square.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, sprinkle lightly with powdered sugar.
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Cut into squares to serve.
Store your squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, refrigerate for longer storage, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Serve & Enjoy Holiday Cherry Squares
These Holiday Cherry Squares are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them even further! Serve them warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar. For an extra treat, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also make a fantastic addition to a holiday dessert platter alongside cookies and other sweet goodies.
Expert Tips for Holiday Cherry Squares
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Flavor Boost: For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla. It pairs wonderfully with the cherries!
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Make It Your Own: Feel free to get creative with different pie fillings! Blueberry or peach pie filling are perfect substitutes if you’re looking for a change.
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Serving Size: If you want larger squares, you can score the batter into 12 squares instead of 24. Just adjust the baking time slightly, keeping an eye out for doneness.
Holiday Cherry Squares FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Yes, you can! Just pit and slice fresh cherries and mix them with a little sugar and cornstarch for thickening before spooning them into the squares.
How do I store leftover Holiday Cherry Squares?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator or freeze them.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the squares a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container, and they’ll be ready to serve when you need them.
These Holiday Cherry Squares are perfect for making sweet memories during the holiday season. With a simple recipe and delightful taste, they’ll surely become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try and watch everyone enjoy the sweet cherry goodness!
Holiday Cherry Squares
These sweet squares are soft, buttery, and bursting with cherry flavor, making them an ideal dessert for any celebration.
Base Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Filling and Garnish
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 15 x 10-inch rimmed jelly roll pan by greasing and flouring it.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, beat in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour, stirring in by hand until thoroughly combined.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Use a small sharp knife to lightly score the batter into 24 two-inch squares.
- Spoon 2-3 cherries from the cherry pie filling into the center of each scored square.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the squares to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, sprinkle lightly with powdered sugar.
Serving
- Cut into squares to serve.
These squares can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, refrigerated for longer storage, or frozen for up to 3 months. Serve warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar. For an extra treat, pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
