Why Make This Recipe
Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful treat that combines the fruity goodness of cherry pie with the easy-to-eat shape of bars. These sweet bars are perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply enjoying at home. They are simple to make and are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. With a buttery crust, lush cherry filling, and a sweet drizzle on top, these bars bring together the best flavors of a classic pie without the fuss.
How to Make Cherry Pie Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cans (21 ounces each) cherry pie filling
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 to 3 tablespoons 2 percent milk
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and salt until it becomes light and fluffy, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined.
- Spread 3 cups of the dough into a greased 15 by 10 by 1 inch baking pan.
- Evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the dough.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of the remaining dough over the cherry filling.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- In a small bowl, mix the confectioners’ sugar, extracts, and enough milk to achieve the desired consistency for drizzling. Drizzle over the cooled bars.
How to Serve Cherry Pie Bars
Serve Cherry Pie Bars at room temperature or slightly chilled. They are great as a dessert or a midday snack. You can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top or serve them with whipped cream for an extra special touch.
How to Store Cherry Pie Bars
Keep the Cherry Pie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to store them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Make sure to seal them well to prevent them from drying out.
Tips to Make Cherry Pie Bars
- If you prefer a thicker crust, use a little more dough for the base layer.
- Experiment with different pie fillings, such as blueberry or apple, for a twist on the classic.
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
Variation
You can add nuts or coconut to the dough for additional texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries. Just make sure to cook them down with some sugar to create a filling consistency.
Can I freeze Cherry Pie Bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend is suitable for baking.
Cherry Pie Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and salt until it becomes light and fluffy, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined.
- Spread 3 cups of the dough into a greased 15 by 10 by 1 inch baking pan.
- Evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the dough.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of the remaining dough over the cherry filling.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- In a small bowl, mix the confectioners' sugar, extracts, and enough milk to achieve the desired consistency for drizzling.
- Drizzle over the cooled bars.
