Mediterranean Cherry Bars 

Buttery crust + juicy cherry filling + light citrus glaze

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INGREDIENTS

For the Crust & Topping

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• ½ cup sugar

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 1 egg

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Zest of 1 lemon (Mediterranean flavor boost)

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For the Cherry Filling

• 3 cups cherries (fresh or frozen, pitted)

• ½ cup sugar

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 2 tbsp cornstarch

• 2 tbsp water

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For the Glaze (optional but delicious)

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• 1–2 tbsp lemon juice or milk

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INSTRUCTIONS

1. Make the Cherry Filling

1. Add cherries, sugar, and lemon juice to a saucepan.

2. Cook 5–7 minutes until cherries release juices.

3. Mix cornstarch + water, pour into cherries.

4. Cook 1–2 more minutes until thick and glossy.

5. Let cool slightly.

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2. Make the Crust

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and lemon zest.

3. Add cold butter and rub or pulse until crumbly.

4. Add egg + vanilla and mix until dough forms.

5. Press 2/3 of the dough into a lined 9×13 pan.

6. Bake 10 minutes.

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3. Assemble & Bake

1. Spread the cherry filling evenly over the warm crust.

2. Crumble remaining dough over the top.

3. Bake 30–35 minutes, until golden and bubbling.

4. Cool completely before slicing.

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4. Add the Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice and drizzle over cooled bars.

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Mediterranean Variations

✨ Add crushed pistachios on top
✨ Use orange zest instead of lemon
✨ Replace half the cherries with berries or figs
✨ Drizzle with honey instead of glaze