Get ready to indulge in a sweet treat that combines the best of both worlds: the classic flavors of a cherry pie and the convenience of a cookie bar. Ree Drummond's Cherry Pie Cookie Bars are a game-changer for anyone with a sweet tooth. These scrumptious bars are a creative twist on traditional cherry pie, minus the fuss of making a crust or wrestling with a tart pan. In this article, we'll dive into the world of Ree Drummond's Cherry Pie Cookie Bars, exploring the story behind their creation, the ingredients that make them so special, and the step-by-step process for making them at home.
A Brief History of Ree Drummond's Cherry Pie Cookie Bars
Ree Drummond, the popular Food Network personality and author of the bestselling cookbook "The Pioneer Woman Cooks," is known for her innovative takes on classic recipes. Her Cherry Pie Cookie Bars are no exception. According to Ree, the inspiration for these bars came from her daughter, Alex, who requested a dessert that combined the flavors of a cherry pie with the ease of a cookie. Ree took on the challenge, experimenting with various ingredients and techniques until she landed on the perfect combination.
The Magic Ingredients Behind Cherry Pie Cookie Bars
- Butter: The foundation of these bars is a rich, velvety butter mixture that adds depth and moisture to the cookies.
- Granulated Sugar: A generous amount of sugar balances out the tartness of the cherries, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
- Brown Sugar: The addition of brown sugar adds a hint of caramel-like flavor and a satisfying chewiness to the cookies.
- Cherries: Fresh or frozen cherries are the star of the show, providing a sweet-tart flavor and a pop of color to the bars.
- Almond Extract: A hint of almond extract adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements the cherries perfectly.
- Crushed Cookies: The addition of crushed cookies (Ree uses chocolate sandwich cookies) adds texture and a nod to the cookie aspect of these bars.
The Step-by-Step Process for Making Cherry Pie Cookie Bars
To make Ree Drummond's Cherry Pie Cookie Bars, you'll need to combine the following ingredients in a large bowl: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup crushed cookies (such as chocolate sandwich cookies); and 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries.
Mix the wet ingredients (butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract) in a large bowl until light and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt). Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
Stir in the crushed cookies and cherries. Press the mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish and bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Tips and Variations for Making Cherry Pie Cookie Bars
For an extra-crispy top, bake the bars for an additional 5-10 minutes. To make a more intense cherry flavor, use a combination of sweet and tart cherries or add a splash of cherry extract. Experiment with different types of cookies, such as peanut butter cookies or snickerdoodles, for a unique twist.
Conclusion: A Delicious Twist on Classic Cherry Pie
Ree Drummond's Cherry Pie Cookie Bars are a creative reinterpretation of a classic dessert, offering a sweet and satisfying treat that's perfect for any occasion. With their perfect balance of flavors and textures, these bars are sure to become a new favorite in your household. So go ahead, give them a try, and experience the magic of Cherry Pie Cookie Bars for yourself!
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