Cherry Pie Bars
Introduction
These Cherry Pie Bars are a sweet, buttery dessert that combines the richness of a soft cookie‑like base with the fruity goodness of cherry pie filling. They’re easy to make, perfect for potlucks, holidays, or just a cozy family treat. With a golden crust, luscious cherry layer, and a drizzle of glaze, they’re as beautiful as they are delicious.
Ingredients
For the Bars
1 cup butter, softened
2 cups sugar
4 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups all‑purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
For the Glaze (Optional)
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk
½ tsp vanilla extract
Directions
Step 1: Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 15×10‑inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Batter
Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture until combined.
Step 3: Assemble
Spread ⅔ of the batter into the prepared pan.
Spoon cherry pie filling evenly over the batter.
Drop remaining batter by spoonfuls over the filling.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown.
Cool completely before glazing.
Step 5: Glaze (Optional)
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Drizzle over cooled bars.
Time & Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: ~50 minutes
Yield: 24 bars
Tips & Tricks
Use parchment paper for easy removal and slicing.
Try different pie fillings (blueberry, apple, raspberry) for variety.
Chill bars before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Variations
Almond Cherry Bars: Add ½ tsp almond extract to the batter.
Chocolate Drizzle: Replace glaze with melted chocolate.
Holiday Version: Decorate with festive sprinkles after glazing.
Mini Bars: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Pair with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
Wrap individually for bake sale or gifting.
FAQs
Q: Can I use homemade cherry filling?
A: Yes, homemade filling adds even more flavor.
Q: Can I freeze these bars?
A: Absolutely — freeze in layers with parchment between them for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make them ahead of time?
A: Yes, they taste even better the next day after the flavors meld.
Conclusion
These Cherry Pie Bars are buttery, fruity, and irresistible. With their simple preparation and crowd‑pleasing flavor, they’re a must‑try dessert for any occasion.