Easy Cherry Pie Bars Recipe

Introduction

These easy cherry pie bars combine the flavors of a classic cherry pie with the convenience of a handheld treat. With a buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and a delicate glaze, they’re perfect for dessert or a special snack.

Ingredients

• 1 cup softened butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 (21 oz) can premium cherry pie filling
• For glaze: 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 tsp almond extract (for glaze)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract (for glaze)
• Milk as needed (for glaze)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Beat in the eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Step 4: Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a dough forms.
5. Step 5: Press half of the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
6. Step 6: Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the pressed dough layer.
7. Step 7: Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the cherry filling, gently flattening some to cover, but leaving some gaps.
8. Step 8: Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and firm.
9. Step 9: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before glazing.
10. Step 10: For the glaze, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, almond extract, vanilla extract, and enough milk to achieve a drizzling consistency. Drizzle over the cooled bars before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a nutty flavor, sprinkle chopped almonds on top before baking.
• Substitute cherry filling with your favorite fruit preserves for different flavors.
• Use room temperature eggs to help the dough bind better.
• If dough is too soft, chill it briefly before pressing into the pan.

Storage

Store cherry pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat briefly in the microwave to enjoy a warm treat, if desired. The glaze may soften when refrigerated, so add extra glaze before serving if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for best texture.

Can I freeze cherry pie bars?

Absolutely. Wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Easy Cherry Pie Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 105 reviews

Delight in these Easy Cherry Pie Bars that combine a buttery, tender crust with a sweet and tangy cherry filling, topped with a luscious almond-vanilla glaze. Perfect for a quick dessert, these bars bring all the classic cherry pie flavors in a convenient, handheld form.

• Author: Amaya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Crust & Dough

• 1 cup softened butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt

Filling

• 1 (21 oz) can premium cherry pie filling

Glaze

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 tsp almond extract
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Milk, as needed

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it reaches the perfect baking temperature while you prepare the batter.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for your dough.
3. Add Eggs and Extracts: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, followed by the almond and vanilla extracts, mixing thoroughly to blend all the flavors.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: Stir in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined, forming a firm dough. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.
5. Prepare the Base Layer: Press half of the dough evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, creating the foundation for your cherry filling.
6. Add Cherry Filling: Spread the entire can of cherry pie filling evenly over the pressed dough layer, ensuring full coverage.
7. Top with Remaining Dough: Using a spoon or your fingers, dollop the remaining dough over the cherry filling. The dough will bake into a delicious crumbly topping.
8. Bake the Bars: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbly. Remove and let cool completely.
9. Prepare Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, almond extract, vanilla extract, and enough milk to reach a drizzling consistency.
10. Drizzle and Serve: Once the bars are cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. Cut into squares and enjoy these delicious cherry pie bars!

Notes

• For best results, ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing.
• If cherry filling is very thick, gently warm it to spread more easily.
• The glaze can be customized by adding a bit more milk for thinner drizzle or extra sugar for thicker coating.
• You can store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
• These bars freeze well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Keywords: Cherry Pie Bars, Easy Cherry Bars, Cherry Dessert, Homemade Pie Bars, Almond Vanilla Glaze