Maraschino Cherry Sugar Cookie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
These Maraschino Cherry Sugar Cookie Bars are soft, sweet, and packed with cherry flavor, then topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for parties, holidays, or any special occasion!
Ingredients
For the Bars:
- - 3/4 cup maraschino cherries finely chopped (about half of a 16 oz jar)
- - 3/4 cup butter softened
- - 1 cup sugar
- - 2 eggs
- - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- - 1/2 tsp almond extract
- - 2 1/2 cups flour
- - 1/2 tsp salt
- - 1/4 tsp baking powder
For the Frosting:
- - 4 oz cream cheese softened
- - 1/4 cup butter softened
- - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- - 1/4 tsp almond extract
- - Dash of salt
- - 2 1/2 - 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherries: Drain maraschino cherries well. Chop finely and set aside.
- Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Gradually add the flour, salt, and baking powder, and mix until just combined. Fold in the chopped cherries.
- Bake the Bars: Press the dough evenly into a greased or foil-lined 9x13" pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the bars to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, almond extract, salt, and powdered sugar (start with 2 1/2 cups and add more as needed) and beat until the frosting is spreadable.
- Frost and Serve: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.
Notes
- For the best flavor, ensure the maraschino cherries are well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the dough.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Garnish with additional chopped cherries or sprinkles for extra decoration!