Shirley Temple Bars are a delightful, nostalgic treat inspired by the beloved non-alcoholic drink named after the iconic child star. This dessert captures the sweet and tangy essence of the classic Shirley Temple drink, featuring a luscious cherry flavor complemented by the fizzy brightness of ginger ale.
Ingredients
Scale:
For the crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs, finely crushed
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
⅓ cup granulated sugar
For the filling:
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
2 cups cherry pie filling
¾ cup ginger ale
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
For the topping:
1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Maraschino cherries for garnish
Optional: sprinkles or crushed graham crackers for decoration
Instructions
Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs with ½ cup melted unsalted butter and ⅓ cup granulated sugar. Mix until well combined.
Press into the pan: Pour the crust mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish. Press it firmly into the bottom to create an even layer.
Chill the crust: Place the prepared crust in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to set.
Make the filling: In another mixing bowl, blend 8 oz softened cream cheese and ½ cup powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add flavor: Gradually mix in 2 cups of cherry pie filling, ¾ cup of ginger ale, and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice until fully incorporated.
Combine layers: Once the crust is set, pour the cherry and ginger ale filling over the chilled crust. Spread it evenly.
Chill again: Return the baking dish to the refrigerator and let the bars chill for at least 3-4 hours.
Add the topping: After chilling, spread 1 cup of whipped topping over the set filling.
Garnish: Decorate the top with maraschino cherries and optional sprinkles or crushed graham crackers.
