Delicious Sour Cherry Stollen Bars for Festive Snacking

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

The moment I took my first bite of these Sour Cherry Stollen Bars, I was transported back to my grandmother s cozy kitchen, where the scent of buttery dough and sweet fruits filled the air. The perfect blend of tangy cherries and a tender, crumbly base makes these bars a delightful twist on the traditional German stollen, just right for holiday gatherings.

What I adore about these gluten-free treats is their versatility they re not just a snack; they re a conversation starter at any festive table. Whether you re entertaining guests or simply indulging in a sweet moment with a cup of tea, these bars deliver an incredibly rich experience that effortlessly elevates your dessert game. Plus, they re easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice when you want to impress without the fuss. Join me as we dive into this joyful recipe that brings the spirit of celebration to your kitchen!

Why are Sour Cherry Stollen Bars a must-try?

Deliciously Unique: These Sour Cherry Stollen Bars introduce a delightful twist on a classic treat, merging sweet and tart flavors in every bite.
Gluten-Free Joy: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions, these bars offer indulgence without compromise.
Festive Appeal: Their vibrant colors and rich taste make them an ideal centerpiece for holiday gatherings.
Quick Preparation: With straightforward steps, you ll be enjoying these bars in no time!
Endless Variations: Feel free to mix things up with different dried fruits or nuts to suit your palate.
Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with flavor and texture, these bars combine healthy elements with festive cheer, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied!

Sour Cherry Stollen Bars Ingredients

For the Base

• Cherry Jam Provides sweetness and moisture; use thick cherry jam for best results.
• Cornflour Acts as a thickening agent; helps to set the jam layer firmly.
• Gluten-Free Plain Flour Forms the base; substitute with almond flour for a nutty flavor.
• Xanthan Gum Provides structure in gluten-free baking; omit if using regular flour.
• Golden Caster Sugar Sweetens the batter; regular granulated sugar can be used instead.
• Salted Butter Imparts flavor and moisture; unsalted butter works well, just add a pinch of salt.
• Egg Yolk Adds richness and moisture; use a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
• Toasted Flaked Almonds Adds crunch and flavor; consider using pecans if preferred.
• Gluten-Free Hobnobs Contributes structure and texture; gluten-free digestive biscuits can be a good substitute.

For the Topping

• Egg Whites Adds lightness and structure; for vegan, replace with ground flax seed mixed with water.
• Ground Almonds Deepens flavor and adds texture; swap for ground walnuts if desired.
• Full-Fat Soft Cheese Adds moisture and richness; cream cheese can be substituted.
• Mixed Spice Adds warm undertones; use a blend of cinnamon and nutmeg as an alternative.
• Lemon and Orange Zest and Juice Brightens the flavors; extra zest can enhance the freshness.

For the Additions

• Dried Sour Cherries Provides tartness; can substitute with dried cranberries for a different twist.
• Mixed Peel Adds a citrus note; optional to omit or substitute with candy citrus peels.
• Marzipan Adds sweetness and a nutty flavor; use this only if you desire a richer taste.

Dust the finished bars with a generous sprinkle of Icing Sugar use powdered sugar as an alternative, perfect for that festive touch!

How to Make Sour Cherry Stollen Bars

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Begin by preheating your oven to 200 °C (fan 180 °C/gas 6). While it s warming up, line a 22cm square baking tin with baking paper to ensure easy removal later.
2. Prepare the Base:
   In a food processor, combine the ingredients for the base: cherry jam, cornflour, gluten-free plain flour, xanthan gum, golden caster sugar, salted butter, egg yolk, and toasted flaked almonds. Pulse until smooth, then press the mixture into the prepared tin. Bake for 15 minutes, or until it s golden brown. Let it cool while keeping the oven warm.
3. Layer the Cherries:
   While your base cools, separate cherry chunks from the jam and mix them with cornflour. Once the base is cool, spread this cherry mixture evenly over it. Chill in the fridge for a bit to set.
4. Make the Topping:
   In a bowl, beat together caster sugar, softened butter, almond extract, egg whites, ground almonds, gluten-free flour, soft cheese, mixed spice, and both lemon and orange zest until smooth. Stir in the juices, dried sour cherries, mixed peel, half of the flaked almonds, pistachios, and marzipan for an extra touch of sweetness.
5. Assemble and Bake:
   Dollop and carefully spread the topping over the chilled cherry layer, taking care not to disturb the jam. Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes, or until golden and set. Brush the top with remaining citrus juice while it s warm, dust with icing sugar, and let cool completely. Now it s time to slice into delightful bars!

Optional: Serve these bars with a side of whipped cream for an indulgent touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Sour Cherry Stollen Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the base and layer of cherries up to 24 hours in advance just chill the cherry mixture in the fridge to maintain its freshness. When you re ready to serve, simply whip up the topping and assemble everything before baking. If you want to prepare even further ahead, assemble the entire dish (before baking) and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures that your bars are just as delicious when they come out of the oven, providing a delightful treat with minimal effort on the day of your gathering!

Sour Cherry Stollen Bars Variations

Customize your Sour Cherry Stollen Bars with these delightful twists, perfect for adding a personal touch!

• Nutty Delight: Add chopped hazelnuts or walnuts to the base for an extra crunch and flavor boost. A handful can make a world of difference; those little bits bring texture under every bite.
• Citrus Zing: Replace mixed peel with fresh orange zest for a lively citrus kick that brightens the overall flavor profile. The freshness will have your taste buds dancing!
• Festive Spice: Experiment with a pumpkin spice blend instead of mixed spice to add a seasonal warmth that complements the cherries beautifully. It s like a cozy hug in every bar!
• Fruit Fusion: Swap dried sour cherries for a mix of dried apricots and cranberries for a vibrant, sweet-tart combo that dreams are made of. The rainbow of flavors makes it extra festive!
• Chocolate Twist: Fold in mini gluten-free chocolate chips into the topping for a rich chocolatey surprise that melds beautifully with the cherry flavor. Chocolate and cherries are a timeless pair!
• Vanilla Vibes: Substitute almond extract with pure vanilla extract for a sweeter, creamier essence that pairs well with the cherry flavor. It s like pouring a bit of sunshine into your bars!
• Cheesy Goodness: Use mascarpone cheese instead of soft cheese in the topping for a richer, creamier texture that makes each bite utterly indulgent. It s a luxurious upgrade for any special occasion!
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the topping for a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweet cherries. Just a hint can elevate the dish in surprising ways!

What to Serve with Sour Cherry Stollen Bars?

Indulging in these delightful bars is just the beginning; let s build a festive spread that will leave your guests raving.

• Rich Hot Cocoa: Paired with the tartness of the bars, a cup of rich hot cocoa brings warm, comforting flavors that embody the holiday spirit.
• Cinnamon-Spiced Tea: This fragrant tea s subtle spice complements the bars beautifully, enhancing the holiday vibe and providing a cozy experience.
• Warm Vanilla Custard: Drizzling warm custard over the bars adds a luscious creaminess, creating a delightful contrast to the firm texture of the stollen.
• Toasted Almonds: Sprinkle some toasted almonds on top for an extra layer of crunch that accentuates the nutty flavors already present in the bars.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: The brightness of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the bars, introducing refreshing notes that elevate your dessert table.
• Mulled Wine: Boost the festive atmosphere with a glass of mulled wine; its spicy notes perfectly complement the warm flavors in the sour cherry bars.
• Marzipan Treats: Keep the marzipan theme going with small marzipan bites; their nutty sweetness pairs harmoniously with the tart cherries in each bar.

Serving any combination of these alongside your sour cherry stollen bars creates a holiday experience that is sure to impress!

How to Store and Freeze Sour Cherry Stollen Bars

Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Ensure the lid is secure to maintain freshness.

Fridge: For extended shelf life, keep your sour cherry stollen bars in the fridge, where they can last up to two weeks. Just be sure to wrap them well to prevent drying out.

Freezer: To freeze, place the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag for up to three months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 170 °C (340 °F) for 5-10 minutes. This will refresh their texture and flavor!

Expert Tips for Sour Cherry Stollen Bars

• Lining the Tin: Ensure to line the baking tin properly with baking paper to prevent the bars from sticking when you remove them.
• Cooling Time: Allow the base to cool completely before layering on the cherry mixture. This helps maintain the structure and prevents sogginess.
• Measuring Ingredients: Use accurate measurements, especially for gluten-free flour, to ensure the perfect texture in your sour cherry stollen bars.
• Chill the Layers: Don t skip chilling the cherry layer; it sets well and prevents mixing with the topping during baking.
• Check for Doneness: For optimal results, gently press the top; it should feel firm but spring back slightly when fully baked.

Sour Cherry Stollen Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe cherries for my Sour Cherry Stollen Bars?
Absolutely! When selecting cherries, look for ones that are firm and shiny with a deep red color. Avoid cherries that have dark spots all over or feel mushy. Using fresh, ripe cherries will enhance the flavor and texture of your stollen bars, making them more delightful.

How should I store Sour Cherry Stollen Bars after baking?
You can store these delicious Sour Cherry Stollen Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresher for longer, refrigerate them, where they can last up to two weeks. Just ensure they re wrapped well to prevent any drying out!

Can I freeze Sour Cherry Stollen Bars?
Yes, you can! To freeze, start by cutting the bars into individual pieces. Lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, which usually takes about 2 hours. Then transfer the frozen bars to a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When you re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 170 °C (340 °F) for 5-10 minutes.

What if my bars seem too crumbly?
Very! If your Sour Cherry Stollen Bars are crumbly, it might be due to the gluten-free flour or an imbalance in your wet ingredients. Ensure you are measuring accurately and consider adding a touch more butter or soft cheese to the mixture to help bind everything together. Additionally, letting the bars cool completely before slicing can improve their overall texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for making these bars?
Baking these Sour Cherry Stollen Bars is quite friendly for various dietary needs, but do be cautious if you or your guests have nut allergies. Alternatively, you can swap out ingredients like ground almonds for sunflower seed flour to keep the bars nut-free. If you re baking for vegans, use ground flaxseed mixed with water in place of egg yolks and egg whites.