### Cherry Walnut Bars Recipe: A Sweet & Nutty Delight
#### Introduction
Cherry Walnut Bars are a perfect combination of sweet cherries, crunchy walnuts, and a buttery crust that melts in your mouth. This recipe offers a delightful balance between tart cherry flavor and the rich nuttiness from the walnuts. Perfect for any occasion, these bars can be enjoyed as a dessert or an afternoon snack.
#### Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- Filling:
- 8 ounces pitted cherries (fresh or frozen), drained if using frozen
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A few chopped walnuts for topping
#### Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Cookie cutter or the back of a measuring cup for shaping bars
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### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### Preparing the Crust
1. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small cubes), 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon almond extract if using. Stir the ingredients together with a fork or your hands until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. **Forming the Crust:** Press the mixture into a 9-inch baking pan (lined with parchment paper for easier removal). Use the bottom of a glass or a measuring cup to press down firmly and ensure an even layer.
3. **Bake the Crust:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crust for about 20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Allow it to cool on a wire rack before adding the filling.
#### Making the Filling
4. **Prepare Cherries and Cornstarch Mix:** In a medium saucepan, combine 8 ounces of pitted cherries (drained if frozen) with 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Stir well to coat the cherries evenly.
5. **Simmer the Filling:** Place the pan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes syrupy. Remove from heat and pour the cherry mixture into the cooled crust.
6. **Add Walnuts & Bake:** Sprinkle a few chopped walnuts over the cherry filling, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is lightly golden brown and the filling has set.
#### Final Steps
7. **Allow to Cool:** Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before cutting into bars. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the bars are easier to handle when serving.
8. **Serve & Enjoy:** Once cooled, cut the bars into desired sizes using a sharp knife or cookie cutter. Serve warm for best taste, but they can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
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By following these steps, you'll create a delicious and visually appealing cherry walnut bar that will impress both family and friends! Perfect your baking skills and enjoy this delightful treat!