Cherry Kuchen Bars Recipe

Cherry Kuchen Bars: A Nostalgic Delight from the Better Homes & Gardens Test Kitchen

The aroma of freshly baked Cherry Kuchen Bars wafts through the kitchen, transporting you back to a simpler time. These delightful dessert bars, with their buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and delicate powdered sugar icing, are a timeless treat. Developed by the culinary experts at the Better Homes & Gardens Test Kitchen, this recipe is a testament to nearly a century of dedication to creating reliable, delicious dishes that bring joy to home cooks everywhere.

A Legacy of Culinary Excellence

The Better Homes & Gardens Test Kitchen has been a cornerstone of American culinary tradition for almost 100 years. Since its inception, the Test Kitchen has been committed to developing and testing practical, reliable recipes that home cooks can trust. The team, which includes culinary specialists, food stylists, registered and licensed nutritionists, and experts with degrees in food science, food and nutrition, or culinary arts, rigorously tests each recipe to ensure it meets the highest standards.

With more than 2,500 recipes tested, over 2,500 food images produced, and more than 1,000 food videos created each year, the Test Kitchen is a powerhouse of culinary innovation. This Cherry Kuchen Bars recipe is a shining example of the expertise and passion that define the Better Homes & Gardens Test Kitchen.

Ingredients and Preparation

For the Bars:

½ cup butter, softened
½ cup shortening
1 ¾ cup sugar
1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling*

For the Powdered Sugar Icing:

1 ½ cups powdered sugar
¼ teaspoon vanilla or almond extract
3 teaspoons milk

Directions:

Preheat and Prepare the Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and shortening with an electric mixer on medium speed for 30 seconds. Add the sugar, baking powder, and salt, and continue beating until combined, occasionally scraping the sides of the bowl. Beat in the eggs and vanilla until fully incorporated. Gradually add as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. Use a wooden spoon to stir in any remaining flour. Reserve 1 ½ cups of the dough for topping.
Bake the Crust: Spread the remaining dough evenly in the bottom of an ungreased 15x10x1-inch baking pan. Bake for 12 minutes, until the crust is set but not browned.
Add the Filling and Topping: Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the baked crust. Drop small mounds of the reserved dough on top of the filling.
Final Baking: Bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the top is light brown. Cool the bars in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
Drizzle with Icing: In a small bowl, stir together the powdered sugar, vanilla or almond extract, and enough milk to achieve a smooth, drizzling consistency. Drizzle the icing over the bars. Allow them to cool completely before cutting into squares.

*Note: Feel free to substitute your favorite flavor of pie filling for the cherry pie filling to create a variety of delicious bars.

The Joy of Cherry Kuchen Bars

These Cherry Kuchen Bars are more than just a dessert; they are a piece of culinary history. The combination of a tender, buttery crust with the vibrant, sweet cherry filling and the delicate powdered sugar icing creates a harmony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible.

Tips for Perfect Cherry Kuchen Bars

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps in achieving a smoother dough and better overall texture.
Even Layering: When spreading the dough in the pan and the cherry filling over the baked crust, make sure to spread everything evenly. This ensures that each bar has a consistent taste and texture.
Cooling Time: Allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting is crucial. This helps the bars to set properly, making them easier to cut and handle without falling apart.
Icing Consistency: The icing should be smooth and of a drizzling consistency. If it is too thick, add a little more milk, a teaspoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Storage: Store the Cherry Kuchen Bars in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to three months.

Versatility of the Recipe

While cherry is a classic choice, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can experiment with different pie fillings to suit your taste preferences or to use up what you have on hand. Apple, blueberry, and raspberry fillings all make excellent alternatives, each bringing a unique twist to the traditional kuchen bars.

The Better Homes & Gardens Difference

What sets the Better Homes & Gardens Test Kitchen apart is their meticulous approach to recipe development and testing. Each recipe is crafted with care, ensuring that it is not only delicious but also accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. The Cherry Kuchen Bars are no exception. They are straightforward to make, yet the result is a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery.

Pairing Cherry Kuchen Bars with Other Treats

Cherry Kuchen Bars are a delightful treat on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of other desserts and beverages. Here are a few suggestions to enhance your dessert experience:

Complementary Desserts

Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside your Cherry Kuchen Bars. The creamy, cool texture of the ice cream complements the warm, buttery crust and sweet cherry filling perfectly.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can add a light, airy contrast to the dense and rich texture of the bars. You can even flavor the whipped cream with a hint of almond or vanilla extract to tie in with the flavors of the bars.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with a mix of berries, melons, and citrus can provide a fresh, tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the Cherry Kuchen Bars.

Beverage Pairings

Coffee or Espresso: The rich, robust flavors of coffee or espresso can enhance the sweetness of the bars. A hot cup of coffee is perfect for a morning or afternoon treat, while an espresso can add a sophisticated touch to your dessert spread.
Herbal Tea: A light, fruity herbal tea, such as chamomile or hibiscus, can complement the flavors of the cherry filling without overpowering the delicate crust and icing.
Sparkling Water: For a refreshing and palate-cleansing option, pair the bars with a glass of sparkling water. You can add a slice of lemon or lime for an extra burst of flavor.

Creative Variations on Cherry Kuchen Bars

If you’re looking to put your own spin on this classic recipe, here are a few creative variations to consider:

Nutty Crust

Add a bit of crunch to your Cherry Kuchen Bars by incorporating finely chopped nuts into the crust. Almonds, pecans, or walnuts work particularly well. Simply mix the nuts into the dough before pressing it into the pan.

Chocolate Drizzle

For a decadent twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the bars along with the powdered sugar icing. Dark chocolate pairs especially well with the sweet cherry filling, adding a rich, complex flavor.

Citrus Zest

Add a burst of citrus flavor by incorporating lemon or orange zest into the dough or the icing. The bright citrus notes can provide a lovely contrast to the sweet cherry filling.

Spiced Filling

Enhance the cherry filling with a touch of warm spices. A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves can add depth and complexity to the flavor profile of the bars.

Making Cherry Kuchen Bars for Special Occasions

Cherry Kuchen Bars are a versatile dessert that can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. Here are a few ideas for presenting these bars for different events:

Holiday Gatherings

Cherry Kuchen Bars make a festive addition to any holiday dessert table. Their vibrant red filling and snowy white icing are particularly fitting for Christmas celebrations. Consider arranging them on a decorative platter and garnishing with fresh mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Potlucks and Picnics

These bars are easy to transport and serve, making them an ideal choice for potlucks and picnics. Cut them into small, bite-sized pieces and arrange them in a single layer in a sturdy container. They are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.

Birthday Parties

For a fun twist, use a variety of fruit fillings to create a colorful array of kuchen bars. You can offer cherry, blueberry, and apple variations, allowing guests to choose their favorite. Decorate each type with a different icing color or garnish to make them visually appealing.

The Cultural Significance of Kuchen

Kuchen, which means “cake” in German, is a beloved dessert in many cultures, particularly in Germany and among German-American communities. It comes in many forms, from simple cakes to more elaborate pastries filled with fruits, custards, or nuts.

Cherry Kuchen Bars are a delightful variation on this traditional dessert, blending the classic flavors of kuchen with the convenience and portability of bar cookies. They embody the essence of comfort food, evoking memories of family gatherings and home baking.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Kuchen Bars are more than just a delicious treat—they are a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and the joy of home baking. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a dessert that is both impressive and satisfying.

So next time you’re looking for a dessert that combines the best of old-world charm and modern convenience, look no further than Cherry Kuchen Bars. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the sweet rewards of your effort. These bars are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a way to connect with a rich culinary heritage and create new memories with family and friends. Happy baking!