Cherry Pie Bars

Cherry pie bars are a delightful twist on the classic cherry pie, offering all the sweet, tangy flavors in an easy-to-make bar form. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a simple treat at home, these bars feature a buttery crust, a luscious cherry filling, and a sweet glaze to finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No need to fuss with rolling out pie dough.
• Great for Sharing: These bars are perfect for serving a crowd.
• Customizable: You can use homemade or store-bought cherry pie filling.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The buttery crust complements the sweet and tangy cherry filling beautifully.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling

Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

1. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts.
4. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

1. Spread about two-thirds of the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
2. Spoon the cherry pie filling over the batter.
3. Drop small dollops of the remaining batter over the cherry filling.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Glaze

1. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Drizzle over the cooled bars.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Cut into squares and serve as a delicious dessert or snack.

Variations

• Different Fruit Fillings: Swap cherry pie filling for blueberry, apple, or peach.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the glaze for extra indulgence.
• Lemon Zest: Add a bit of lemon zest to the batter for a citrusy touch.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 bars
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a freshly baked taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?

Yes! Use about 3 cups of fresh pitted cherries mixed with 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cornstarch.

How do I prevent the bars from becoming soggy?

Make sure to bake until golden brown and let them cool completely before cutting.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish or bake in two separate pans.

What can I use instead of almond extract?

If you don’t like almond extract, simply omit it or replace it with more vanilla extract.

Do I need to refrigerate these bars?

They can be stored at room temperature for a couple of days, but refrigerating extends their freshness.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can make them a day in advance and store them in an airtight container.

What’s the best way to cut these bars neatly?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean after each cut for clean slices.

Can I use a different type of sugar for the glaze?

Powdered sugar is best, but you can try a sugar-free alternative if needed.

How do I make these bars extra crispy?

Bake them for a few extra minutes until the edges turn slightly darker.

Conclusion

Cherry pie bars are a simple yet delicious way to enjoy the flavors of cherry pie without the hassle. With their buttery crust, juicy cherry filling, and sweet glaze, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Try this recipe today and share the joy with friends and family!

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