Introduction
Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic cherry pie, offering all the sweet-tart flavor of cherries and buttery crust but in an easy-to-make bar form. They’re perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings because they’re simple to cut, serve, and transport. With a buttery shortbread base, a cherry filling, and a sweet glaze on top, these bars are both beautiful and irresistible.
Ingredients
For the crust and topping:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp almond extract (optional but highly recommended)
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
For the filling:
2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
For the glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk
½ tsp vanilla or almond extract
Instructions
Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
Make the crust batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and almond extract.
Add dry ingredients: Stir in flour and salt until fully combined.
Assemble base and filling: Spread about ⅔ of the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Top with cherry pie filling, spreading it out evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the cherries (it won’t cover fully, but will bake into a beautiful golden topping).
Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Allow bars to cool completely.
Glaze: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and extract until smooth. Drizzle glaze over cooled bars.
Slice and serve: Cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy!
Description
These Cherry Pie Bars deliver the comforting taste of homemade cherry pie without the fuss of rolling dough. The buttery base acts like a cookie crust, while the sweet-tart cherry filling adds fruity brightness. A drizzle of glaze ties everything together for a dessert that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
Tips and Variations
Fruit swaps: Substitute cherry pie filling with blueberry, apple, or peach for variety.
Fresh twist: Use fresh or frozen cherries cooked down with sugar and cornstarch if you prefer homemade filling.
Nutty upgrade: Add sliced almonds on top before baking for crunch.
Gluten-free option: Use a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend.
Make ahead: These bars taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Correction
Some recipes suggest using all of the batter at the bottom, but it’s best to reserve part for the topping. This creates a nice layered effect and prevents the bars from being too dense.
Enjoy
Serve these Cherry Pie Bars at family gatherings, bake sales, or as a sweet treat with a cup of coffee or tea. They’re festive, delicious, and guaranteed to please any crowd!