Del’s Layer Bars are a delightful addition to any holiday cookie list, sourced from a cherished family recipe shared by a beloved sister-in-law. These bars encapsulate the essence of the festive season with their tantalizing blend of flavors and textures. Imagine sinking your teeth into layers of tender pastry, complemented by a luscious filling infused with the sweetness of maraschino cherries and the nuttiness of coconut. 🍒🥥
Let’s dive into the kitchen and whip up these delectable treats! With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll soon have a batch of Del’s Layer Bars ready to share and savor.
Del’s Layer Bars Recipe
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Flour | 1 cup |
| Margarine | 1/2 cup |
| Powdered sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Flour | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Baking powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Shredded coconut | 1/2 cup |
| Maraschino cherries | 3/4 cup |
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Mix the pastry ingredients in a bowl, using your fingers to blend until smooth.
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Pat the pastry mixture into an 8- or 9-inch square baking pan, ensuring an even layer across the bottom.
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Bake the pastry in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, allowing it to partially set.
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While the pastry is baking, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, flour, salt, baking powder, vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped maraschino cherries. Mix until well incorporated.
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Spread the prepared filling evenly over the partially baked pastry crust.
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Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is lightly golden brown.
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Cool the bars in the pan for a few minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Once cooled, cut the bars into squares using a sharp knife.
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Enjoy these delicious Del’s Layer Bars as a delightful treat with a cup of coffee or as a sweet ending to any meal.
Note: This recipe can be easily doubled and baked in a 9 x 13-inch pan to yield more bars for larger gatherings or gift-giving occasions.
These bars are sure to become a beloved favorite in your holiday baking repertoire, earning rave reviews from family and friends alike. With their irresistible combination of flavors and simple preparation, Del’s Layer Bars are destined to become a cherished tradition in your home for years to come. 🎄🍒
