Cherry Pie Bars
There’s something about cherry pie that brings a smile to everyone’s face, and these Cherry Pie Bars take that delicious charm to another level! They’re like a warm hug from your favorite dessert, boasting a delightful blend of sweet and tart cherry filling nestled between layers of buttery, crumbly dough. The inviting aroma fills your kitchen, making them perfect for sharing, though you might want to keep a few for yourself!
These bars have a texture that’s both satisfying and comforting—crispy on top while soft and chewy beneath the cherry filling. They are a fantastic dessert for any occasion, from family gatherings to potlucks or even as an afternoon treat with coffee. Once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
Nutrition & Recipe Details:
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Prep time | 20 minutes |
| Cook time | 30-35 minutes |
| Store time | 3-4 days |
| Calories | 300 per serving |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 12g |
How to make Cherry Pie Bars
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter (softened) | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 2 cups |
| Eggs | 4 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Almond extract | 1/4 teaspoon |
| All-purpose flour | 3 cups |
| Cherry pie filling | 42 ounces (2 cans) |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup |
| Almond extract (for glaze) | 1 teaspoon |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons (add more as needed) |
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla and almond extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, salt, and other dry ingredients. Gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. Press two-thirds of the dough into the bottom.
- Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the crust.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the cherry filling.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- For the glaze, mix the powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk until you reach the desired consistency.
- Allow the bars to cool completely, then cut and enjoy!
Pro Tips:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Chill the Dough | Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help it hold its shape better. |
| Use Fresh Cherries | Try using fresh cherries when in season for a more vibrant flavor! |
| Test for Doneness | Check for a golden brown color on top to gauge if the bars are fully baked. |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cherry Pie Bars are incredibly versatile. They offer the delightful taste of cherry pie without the fuss of a traditional pie crust. The ease of preparation makes them a fantastic choice for bakers of all skill levels—perfect for busy days when you want something sweet but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
The sweet, fruity flavor paired with just a hint of almond provides a beautiful balance that everyone will adore. These cherry pie bars can sweeten up any event, catering to both casual and festive occasions with their appealing look and taste.
How to serve Cherry Pie Bars
Serving these Cherry Pie Bars is part of the fun! You can enjoy them warm out of the oven, at room temperature, or even chilled from the fridge. Top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat or sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a classic touch. They pair well with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of milk—ideal for a cozy snack or dessert.
For presentation, consider cutting them into small squares for easy serving at gatherings. A pretty plate and a drizzle of the glaze on top can elevate their look. You can also add fresh cherries or mint leaves for a pop of color on your dessert table.
How to store Cherry Pie Bars
Cherry Pie Bars can be stored in a few different ways. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they’re sealed to prevent drying out.
If you’re planning on saving them for later, freezing is a great option! Cut the bars into serving sizes, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. These can last up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw in the fridge before enjoying!
Tips to make Cherry Pie Bars
- Be sure not to overmix the dough when combining wet and dry ingredients; this keeps the bars tender.
- Experiment with the cherry filling—using a mix of sour and sweet cherries can provide a unique flavor twist.
- For a bit more texture, consider adding some chopped nuts to the dough!
Variation
If you’re looking to switch things up, there are several fun variations to try. For a vegan twist, substitute the butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. You could also make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend.
For a rich chocolate version, add cocoa powder to the dough and mix in dark cherry filling instead. Spicy enthusiasts might even love adding a pinch of cinnamon to the crust!
Storage and Reheating
If you need to reheat the bars, the oven is preferable to maintain their texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the bars on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave; just place a bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20-30 seconds, checking for warmth to avoid overheating.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to adjust flavors! Adding a bit more almond extract can enhance the nuttiness, while a splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors of the cherries. You might like to add coconut flakes to the dough for a tropical twist or chocolate chips for something indulgent.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter is softened for easier creaming.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the oven; once they turn golden brown, they’re done!
- Not Cooling Completely: Allow the bars to cool properly for clean cutting.
- Storing While Warm: Always store the bars once they’ve completely cooled to prevent sogginess.
Serving Occasions
These Cherry Pie Bars are perfect for family gatherings, birthday parties, potlucks, or picnics. They also make an easy dessert for casual weeknight dinners or after-school snacks. With their festive look and delightful taste, they are bound to be a hit at your next event!
Why make this recipe
This Cherry Pie Bars recipe stands out because it combines the classic flavors of cherry pie with the convenience of handheld bars. Unlike traditional pie, you don’t have to deal with a complicated lattice crust or worry about slicing. Plus, the combination of the sweet cherries and a buttery crumbly top creates an indulgent taste that is simply irresistible.
Furthermore, these bars are adaptable. You can easily modify them to suit dietary preferences or add a twist on the classic flavors, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a piece. They are a slice of nostalgia that can be made fresh in your kitchen!
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of pie filling?
Yes! Frozen pitted cherries are a great alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding them.
What can I use instead of almond extract?
If you don’t have almond extract, vanilla extract works perfectly, although it will slightly change the flavor.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and use two baking pans. Adjust the baking time as needed!
What’s the best way to cut these bars?
Use a sharp knife and make sure the bars are fully cooled to prevent sticking.
Can I add other fruits?
Yes, feel free to mix in raspberries or blueberries with the cherry filling for a colorful twist!
Disclaimer
Please note that nutrition information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Always check your own ingredient packaging for precise information.
Print
Cherry Pie Bars
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious cherry pie bars with a sweet and tart cherry filling nestled between layers of buttery, crumbly dough.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 42 ounces cherry pie filling (2 cans)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (for glaze)
- 2 tablespoons milk (add more as needed)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla and almond extract.
- Combine the flour, salt, and other dry ingredients in another bowl. Gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. Press two-thirds of the dough into the bottom.
- Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the crust.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the cherry filling.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Mix the powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk until you reach the desired consistency for the glaze.
- Allow the bars to cool completely, then cut and enjoy!
Notes
Chill the dough for about 30 minutes for better shape. Try using fresh cherries for more vibrant flavor!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American