Cherry Pie Bars

These Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic dessert. With a buttery shortbread crust and sweet cherry filling, they bring a burst of flavor to any gathering. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or simply as a sweet treat at home, these bars are easy to make and satisfy any sweet tooth!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cherry pie bars in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery crust, cherry filling, and crumbly topping creates a mouthwatering taste that will keep you coming back for more.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve them warm with ice cream or chilled as a refreshing snack; these bars fit any occasion!
• Make Ahead Option: These bars store well in the fridge or freezer, making them great for meal prep or last-minute guests.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these sweet treats, making them perfect for family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather the essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×9-inch baking pan: This size is perfect for even baking and portioning your cherry pie bars into 16 squares.
• Parchment paper: Lining your pan with parchment paper ensures easy removal of the bars once baked.
• Electric mixer: An electric mixer saves time and effort when beating butter and sugar until fluffy.
• Whisk: Use a whisk to combine your glaze ingredients smoothly for an even drizzle over the cooled bars.

Ingredients

These cherry pie bars are an easy twist on classic cherry pie. Made with a buttery shortbread crust, sweet cherry pie filling, and a crumbly topping, they’re bursting with flavor in every bite!

For the Bars

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt or table salt
• 21 ounces cherry pie filling (1 can)

For the Glaze

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla extract)
• 1 Tablespoon milk (or cream)

How to Make Cherry Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare your 9×9-inch pan by lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large bowl:
1. Beat together 1 cup unsalted butter and 3/4 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon almond extract, mixing until smooth.
3. Gradually add in 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 3/4 teaspoon salt. Mix until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

Press about two-thirds of the dough into the prepared pan:
* Use parchment paper to press down more easily.
Top the dough evenly with your can of cherry pie filling.

Step 4: Add Crumble Topping

Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the cherry filling:
* Leave some space between each spoonful for even baking.
Bake in your preheated oven for 20–30 minutes. The top should not indent when touched lightly.

Step 5: Cool and Glaze

Remove from oven and let cool completely:
In a bowl, whisk together:
1. 1/2 cup powdered sugar
2. 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
3. 1 Tablespoon milk

Adjust consistency if needed by adding more milk or powdered sugar. Drizzle over cooled bars.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once set, slice into 16 squares:
Serve fresh! These cherry pie bars will stay fresh for 2–3 days at room temperature or can be frozen for up to 6 months. Enjoy!

How to Serve Cherry Pie Bars

Cherry pie bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want them as a dessert centerpiece or a sweet snack, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the tartness of the cherry filling perfectly.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Add a rich chocolate drizzle on top for an indulgent twist that contrasts beautifully with the cherries.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• A dollop of fluffy whipped cream adds lightness and enhances the flavors of the cherry pie bars.

Served Warm

• Heat the bars slightly in the microwave for a comforting, gooey dessert that feels freshly baked.

Topped with Fresh Cherries

• Garnish with fresh cherries to enhance presentation and add a burst of color and flavor.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pairing these bars with coffee creates a delightful afternoon treat that’s perfect for any gathering.

How to Perfect Cherry Pie Bars

Making cherry pie bars is simple, but following a few tips can elevate your baking game. Here are some ways to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality butter and cherries lead to richer flavors in your cherry pie bars.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to maintain a tender texture; overmixing can lead to tough bars.
• Chill Before Baking: For better structure, chill the dough before pressing it into the pan. This helps keep its shape during baking.
• Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on baking time. The top should be lightly golden and firm when pressed gently.
• Let Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool thoroughly helps them set properly and makes slicing easier.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust extracts or add spices like cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor!

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Pie Bars

Cherry pie bars pair well with several side dishes that complement their sweetness. Here are some great options to consider when serving.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the bars.
2. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast that enhances your dessert experience.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a light and refreshing side that pairs nicely with cherry pie bars.
4. Chocolate Mousse: This rich dessert provides a luxurious touch alongside your fruity bars.
5. Nutty Granola: Serving crunchy granola on top adds texture and pairs wonderfully with the soft cherry filling.
6. Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing beverage option can cleanse the palate and enhance the overall enjoyment of your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cherry Pie Bars, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out delicious every time.

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make the bars tough. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not letting the bars cool before glazing can lead to a runny topping. Always allow them to cool completely.
• Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a big difference. Check the expiration dates on your baking powder and extracts.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, and inaccurate measurements can ruin your bars. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different; an incorrect temperature can affect baking time. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cherry Pie Bars in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will stay fresh for 2-3 days when properly stored.

Freezing Cherry Pie Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3-6 months.

Reheating Cherry Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat each bar on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cherry Pie Bars?

Cherry Pie Bars are a delicious dessert that combines the flavors of cherry pie with a buttery shortbread crust and crumbly topping.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Yes! You can use fresh cherries; just cook them down with sugar and cornstarch to create a filling similar to store-bought cherry pie filling.

How do I customize Cherry Pie Bars?

You can customize these bars by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, using different fruit fillings, or even adding nuts for added texture.

How long do Cherry Pie Bars last?

Cherry Pie Bars will last for about 2-3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3-6 months in the freezer if stored properly.

Final Thoughts

These Cherry Pie Bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. With their buttery crust and sweet filling, they are sure to please everyone. Feel free to experiment with various fruits or toppings to make them your own! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every delightful bite!