Cherry Pie Bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. They blend the comforting flavors of cherry pie in a convenient bar form, making them easy to share and enjoy. With a buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and a delightful glaze, these bars are sure to be a hit at gatherings, picnics, or even as a simple treat at home. Who can resist the warm, fruity aroma wafting through the kitchen? Let’s dive into this easy and delightful recipe!
What You’ll Need for Cherry Pie Bars
Here’s a list of ingredients you will need to make these scrumptious Cherry Pie Bars:
- 1 cup (226 grams) butter, softened
- 2 cups (400 grams) sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 cups (375 grams) all-purpose flour
- 2 cans (21 ounces each) cherry pie filling
- 1 cup (120 grams) confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
Step-by-Step Cherry Pie Bars Recipe
-
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
Cream the Mixture: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and salt until the mixture is light and fluffy.
-
Add the Eggs: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition.
-
Incorporate Extracts: Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts for that extra burst of flavor.
-
Combine the Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, mixing until just combined.
-
Prepare the Pan: Grease a 15x10x1 inch baking pan or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
-
Spread the Dough: Take about 3/4 of the dough and spread it evenly in the bottom of the prepared pan.
-
Add Cherry Filling: Spoon the cherry pie filling over the dough, spreading it out evenly.
-
Drop Remaining Dough: Use teaspoonfuls of the remaining dough and drop them over the cherry filling, leaving some spaces for venting.
-
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
-
Cool & Glaze: Once done, allow the bars to cool completely. In a small bowl, mix the confectioners’ sugar, remaining extracts, and enough milk to reach your desired consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
How to Serve Cherry Pie Bars
These Cherry Pie Bars are best served at room temperature or slightly chilled. To brighten things up, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. You can also sprinkle some fresh cherries or nuts on top for added texture and flavor. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of iced tea for the ultimate indulgence!
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Add a Crunch: For a delightful twist, mix in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts in the dough for added texture.
- Different Fruits: Feel free to swap the cherry filling for other fruit fillings like blueberry or apple to suit your taste.
- Make Ahead: These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. They keep well for a few days, making them a convenient choice for meal prep!
Cherry Pie Bars FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries if you prefer. Just make sure to pit and sweeten them as needed.
How should I store leftover Cherry Pie Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer. Thaw them in the fridge before serving.
These Cherry Pie Bars offer a delightful blend of sweetness and nostalgia. Whether you’re enjoying them at a gathering or as an everyday treat, they’re sure to leave you smiling. Give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!
Cherry Pie Bars
Cherry Pie Bars blend the comforting flavors of cherry pie in a convenient bar form, featuring a buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and a delightful glaze.
For the crust and filling
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs (Beaten)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (Gradually added to mixture)
- 2 cans cherry pie filling (21 ounces each)
For the glaze
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk (To reach desired glaze consistency)
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and salt until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour until just combined.
- Grease a 15x10x1 inch baking pan or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Assembly
- Spread about 3/4 of the dough evenly in the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Spoon the cherry pie filling over the dough, spreading it out evenly.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of the remaining dough over the cherry filling, leaving spaces for venting.
Baking
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Glazing
- Allow the bars to cool completely.
- In a small bowl, mix the confectioners’ sugar, remaining extracts, and enough milk to reach your desired consistency. Drizzle over the cooled bars.
These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled with whipped cream or ice cream.
