Cherry Pie Bars: A Delightful Treat
Cherry Pie Bars are the perfect combination of sweet and tart, giving your taste buds a delightful ride. They have a buttery crust that is soft and crumbly, topped with luscious cherry filling and a sweet glaze. These bars are an excellent dessert option for any occasionโwhether itโs a cozy family gathering, a birthday party, or just a sweet way to end your day.
What makes Cherry Pie Bars special is their ease of preparation compared to a traditional pie. With no need for rolling crusts, these bars are straightforward to make, making them a favorite for both new and experienced bakers. Serve them warm or at room temperature, and watch as they disappear from the platter!
Nutrition & Recipe Details
Item Value Prep time15 minutes Cook time30-35 minutes Store time3-5 days in the fridge Calories180 per bar Protein2g Carbohydrates25g Fat8g How to make Cherry Pie Bars
Ingredients:
Ingredient Quantity All-purpose flour2 cups Unsalted butter, softened1 cup Granulated sugar1 cup Salt1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract1 teaspoon Cherry pie filling1 can (21 oz) Powdered sugar1 cup Milk1-2 tablespoons Almond extract1/2 teaspoon Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add in the salt and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms.
- Press three-quarters of the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the dough.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the cherry filling.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cherry pie bars, slice, and serve.
Pro Tips:
Tip Description Use fresh cherries For an even richer flavor, use fresh cherries instead of canned filling if they are in season. Chill the dough Chilling the dough before pressing it into the pan can make it easier to handle. Add a hint of spice Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm flavor boost. Why Youโll Love This Recipe
Cherry Pie Bars have a delightful balance of flavors, with the tartness of the cherries complementing the sweet, buttery crust perfectly. They are wonderfully chewy with a slightly crisp top, making each bite satisfying. Plus, they are incredibly simple to make, which is perfect for anybody who might be short on time but still wants to impress.
These bars fit well with various dietary needs. You can easily make them gluten-free by swapping out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Whether you want a snack for the kids after school or a sweet addition to a festive occasion, these bars adjust beautifully to any context.
How to serve Cherry Pie Bars
Presentation is key when serving Cherry Pie Bars. You can place them on a decorative platter or serve them individually on dessert plates. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can elevate this treat to a whole new level!
Consider pairing these bars with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy dessert experience. They also make for a delightful afternoon snack or dessert at gatherings. Add fresh mint leaves for a pop of color on the plate!
How to store Cherry Pie Bars
Cherry Pie Bars can be stored easily. If you plan to eat them within a few days, simply keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will last about 3-5 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the bars. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight freezer bag. They can stay good in the freezer for up to three months. Remember to thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature before enjoying!
Tips to make Cherry Pie Bars
For the best results, make sure your butter is at room temperature, as this helps with creaming it with sugar for that fluffy texture. Donโt skip letting the bars cool completely before cutting them; this will help maintain their shape.
If you love a bit of texture, try adding chopped nuts or oats to the topping mixture. This will add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling.
Variation
If you’re looking for some variety, consider using different fruit fillings, such as blueberry, apple, or even a mixed berry filling for a delightful twist. For a healthier option, you can try a sugar substitute in the crust or filling.
For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and substitute ground flaxseed mixed with water for the egg in the crust, along with a fruit filling that doesn’t have any added sugar.
Storage and Reheating
To reheat leftover Cherry Pie Bars, you can use a microwave or oven. If using the microwave, place a bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds until warm. If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC), place the bars on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
For the best flavor and texture, itโs best to enjoy them freshly made. However, reheating them works just fine!
Customization Ideas
Feel free to modify flavors by adding a splash of lemon juice to the cherry filling for extra zing! For toppings, consider a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or chopped nuts to enhance the barsโ flavor and texture.
You could also get creative by swirling additional fruit preserves into the filling for a striking visual effect or drizzle the bars with chocolate for an indulgent twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not greasing the baking dish: This can lead to the bars sticking to the pan, making them difficult to cut and serve. Always grease or line your dish.
- Overmixing the dough: This can result in tough bars. Mix until just combined for a buttery texture.
- Cutting bars too soon: Patience is key! Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to ensure they hold together well.
- Using outdated ingredients: Always check your baking supplies for freshness. Using old leavening agents can affect texture and rise.
- Ignoring the baking time: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so a light golden brown finish is the goal.
Serving Occasions
Cherry Pie Bars are wonderful for various occasions. Great for family dinners and barbecues, they also shine as a potluck contribution. They fit perfectly for holiday celebrations or as a sweet treat for a picnic or brunch.
You can even serve them at a bake sale or coffee morning, where their easy-to-serve nature will make them a hit.
Why make this recipe
Thereโs something uniquely satisfying about Cherry Pie Bars that makes them stand out. Unlike traditional pies, these bars are easy to bake and serve, meaning less fuss and more enjoyment for everyone involved.
The bright flavor of cherries combined with the buttery crust makes for a timeless dessert that pleases all ages. Whether youโre a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, youโll find joy in this simple yet delicious recipe.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen cherries instead?
- Yes! Frozen cherries can be used; just ensure to thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess moisture.
- What can I use instead of almond extract?
- You can replace almond extract with an additional teaspoon of vanilla extract or even a bit of lemon extract for a fresh flavor.
- How do I know when they are done baking?
- They should be golden brown on top. You can also check by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Yes! You can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.
- Is this recipe adaptable for other fruit fillings?
- Absolutely! Feel free to switch it up with your favorite fruit fillings, like blueberry or peach!
Disclaimer
The nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and measurements. Always check labels for precise data if specific dietary needs are a concern.
Print
Cherry Pie Bars
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful combination of sweet and tart cherry filling with a buttery crust, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1 can (21 oz) Cherry pie filling
- 1 cup Powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons Milk
- 1/2 teaspoon Almond extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) and grease a 9ร13 inch baking dish.
- Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add in the salt and vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the flour until a soft dough forms.
- Press three-quarters of the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the dough.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the cherry filling.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
- Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth for the glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cherry pie bars, slice, and serve.
Notes
For a richer flavor, you can use fresh cherries instead of canned filling if in season. Chilling the dough can make it easier to handle.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American