Name: Brown Butter Cherry Bars
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 37 min
Total time: PT-487161H7M19S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Crust: ¾ cup unsalted butter (melted), ⅔ cup granulated sugar, 2 Tbsp light brown sugar, ½ tsp vanilla extract, 1½ cups all‑purpose flour plus graham flour (or substitute), pinch salt; Filling: ¾ cup unsalted butter (for browning), 2 large eggs, ⅔ cup sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp almond extract, 6 Tbsp flour, ⅛ tsp salt, 4 cups fresh pitted cherries (tossed with about 2 tsp flour)

Jump to Recipe

These Brown Butter Cherry Bars are an indulgent treat combining nutty, rich brown butter with sweet, juicy cherries baked into a tender, buttery crust. The blend of textures—from the soft fruit filling to the crisp edges—makes this dessert truly irresistible. Perfect for serving at gatherings, parties, or as a special dessert at home, these bars will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich, Nutty Flavor: Browning the butter enhances the bars’ depth, offering a unique, sophisticated taste.
Perfect Texture: Tender, crumbly crust pairs seamlessly with juicy cherry filling.
Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps ensure excellent results even for novice bakers.
Versatile Dessert: Ideal for casual snacking, family gatherings, or elegant dessert tables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
All-purpose flour
Salt
Baking powder
Large eggs
Vanilla extract
Fresh cherries (pitted and halved)
Lemon zest
Almond extract (optional, but recommended)
Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Directions

Brown the Butter:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Cook, swirling occasionally, until golden brown with a nutty aroma. Immediately remove from heat and transfer to a bowl; let it cool slightly.
Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add browned butter, eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and lemon zest. Stir until a smooth dough forms.
Assemble the Bars:
Spread approximately two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Distribute cherries evenly over the dough, pressing them gently. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over cherries; some cherries should remain exposed.
Bake:
Bake for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the center. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Serve:
Once cooled, lift the bars from the pan using parchment paper. Dust lightly with powdered sugar, if desired. Cut into bars and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes approximately 16 bars
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Fruit Alternatives: Substitute cherries with other fresh fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or peaches.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Nutty Twist: Add toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans to the crust for extra crunch and flavor.
Chocolate Enhancement: Sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips over the cherries before baking.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:
Store the cherry bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days.
Freezing:
Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating:
For a fresh-baked feel, briefly warm the bars in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Thaw completely and drain any excess liquid before using them.

How can I tell when the bars are fully baked?

Bars are ready when they are golden brown around the edges and the center feels set when lightly pressed.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute butter with dairy-free vegan butter or coconut oil. Note that flavor and texture may slightly differ.

What does browning butter do to the flavor?

Browning butter enhances its flavor, imparting nutty, caramelized notes that elevate baked goods significantly.

Do I have to refrigerate Brown Butter Cherry Bars?

Refrigeration isn’t mandatory if consumed within two days, but refrigeration extends freshness.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, double ingredients and bake in two separate pans for even cooking and consistent results.

Why is my crust crumbly?

The crust may be crumbly if overbaked or if too much flour was used. Ensure proper measurement and bake according to guidelines.

Can I use other flavor extracts besides almond?

Yes, vanilla, lemon, or even orange extract can be used as alternatives or complements to almond extract.

Is it necessary to line the pan with parchment paper?

While not strictly necessary, parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes bar removal easier.

Can these bars be made ahead?

Yes, these bars taste just as good the next day, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert option.

Conclusion

These Brown Butter Cherry Bars offer an exceptional balance of rich flavors and delightful textures. Whether served at a casual picnic, a family celebration, or simply enjoyed with tea or coffee, they promise to impress. The luxurious touch of browned butter makes these bars a sophisticated yet easy-to-make dessert you’ll revisit again and again