cherry pie bars

There is something truly magical about cherry pie bars that capture the essence of a classic dessert in a perfectly portable form. This recipe is guaranteed to deliver A Sweet, Tangy Treat in Every Bite! with its luscious cherry filling nestled between buttery, tender layers and topped off with a delicate glaze that ties all the flavors together. It’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, combining nostalgia and burst of fruity tang, making it an irresistible favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, yet each one plays an essential role in crafting the perfect texture, flavor, and color of your cherry pie bars. From the rich butter that provides moisture and tenderness to the tart cherry filling that breathes life into every bite, you’ll see how this combination creates a balanced and memorable dessert.

• 1 cup butter, softened: Provides richness and tender crumb to the bars.
• 2 cups sugar: Adds sweetness, perfectly balancing the tart cherries.
• 4 eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
• ¼ tsp almond extract: Gives a subtle nutty hint that complements the cherries beautifully.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The structure that holds the bars together.
• 1 tsp salt: Balances out the sweetness and deepens flavor.
• 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling: The star of the dish, bursting with juicy tartness.
• For the glaze:
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweet dusting that adds a smooth finish.
• ½ tsp vanilla extract: Extra flavor dimension for the glaze.
• ½ tsp almond extract: Continues the cherry-appropriate nutty aroma.
• 2 tbsp milk: Helps thin the glaze for easy drizzling.

How to Make  cherry pie bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a 15x10x1-inch pan with non-stick spray. This simple step ensures your bars bake evenly and release effortlessly, setting the scene for the magic to come.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This aeration is crucial as it creates a tender and melt-in-your-mouth texture that you’ll adore in every bite.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts, infusing the batter with depth and warmth that harmonize perfectly with the cherry filling.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix

Whisk the flour and salt together in a separate bowl before gradually adding them to your wet mixture. This method prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, consistent batter, laying down a sturdy yet tender base for the filling.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

Take about 3 cups of the batter and spread it evenly over the bottom of your prepared pan. Then layer the cherry pie filling over the batter, letting that fruity, tangy goodness shine. Finally, drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the cherries, creating a rustic, inviting look that promises the perfect bite all around.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake your creation for 30 to 35 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. If you opt for a different pan size like a 9×13-inch, just add a few minutes to ensure everything cooks through without drying out. Patience here means perfection.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Once out of the oven, allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack. This step lets the layers set and the flavors to meld, making your cherry pie bars hold their shape beautifully when sliced.

Step 8: Prepare and Drizzle the Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar with vanilla extract, almond extract, and milk until smooth. Then drizzle this sweet, creamy glaze over the cooled bars. As it sets, it creates a glossy finishing touch that makes each bite shine with that extra sprinkle of love.

How to Serve  cherry pie bars

Garnishes

For an extra pop of color and flavor, sprinkle some fresh cherries or a dusting of powdered sugar on top just before serving. A few slivered almonds can add a delightful crunch that complements the almond extract, making every mouthful even more special.

Side Dishes

Pair your cherry pie bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to add creamy richness that balances the tangy cherry flavors. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or hot tea also makes a perfect companion for this dessert delight.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these bars on a rustic wooden board for a cozy feel, or stack them on a pretty cake stand for an elegant touch. For a fun twist, cut them into mini squares and serve bite-sized portions at parties—the vibrant color and tangy flavor will wow your guests every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cherry pie bars keep wonderfully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This makes them an ideal make-ahead dessert for busy days when you simply want to grab and enjoy a sweet, tangy treat in every bite!

Freezing

Want to save some for later? Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to two months without losing their flavor or texture, ready to thaw whenever you need that sweet, tangy treat.

Reheating

If you prefer your bars slightly warm, gently reheat them in a low oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. This revives the gooey cherry filling and makes the buttery layers even more delightful to eat, capturing that essence of A Sweet, Tangy Treat in Every Bite!

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries add a vibrant flavor and a bit more texture. Just cook them down with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to mimic the consistency of pie filling before layering.

What can I substitute for almond extract if I don’t have it?

Vanilla extract alone works just fine, or you can add a splash of lemon zest for a citrusy twist that still complements the cherry’s tanginess.

How thick should the bars be when baking?

Spreading the batter about 1 inch thick in your pan ensures even cooking and the perfect ratio of crust to cherry filling in every bite.

Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, just remember to use a larger pan and adjust baking time accordingly, usually adding 5-10 minutes, checking frequently for doneness.

Why does the glaze sometimes get too runny?

If your glaze is thin, add a little more powdered sugar to thicken it. The key is finding a consistency that drizzles easily without soaking into the bars too much.

Final Thoughts

This cherry pie bars recipe is truly a celebration of flavors and textures, a little slice of happiness that you can easily make at home. I encourage you to try this A Sweet, Tangy Treat in Every Bite! and watch it become a beloved classic in your kitchen. Once you taste these bars, I’m sure you’ll agree — they’re pure joy wrapped in every delightful bite.

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