Name: Delicious Cherry Pie Bars: Easy Treat to Brighten Your Day
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Real Butter (Softened); 1 cup Sugar; 2 whole Eggs (Room temperature); 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (Or gluten-free blend); 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 1 can Canned Cherry Pie Filling (21 oz); 1 cup Confectioners’ Sugar; 1 teaspoon Pure Almond Extract; 0.5 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 splash Milk (To reach desired consistency)

A sweet aroma wafted through my kitchen, pulling my family in from every corner of the house. As I set my Easy Cherry Pie Bars to cool, I could already see the excitement in their eyes. This recipe perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors, thanks to the delightful burst from canned cherry pie filling and a touch of almond extract that transforms these bars into a family favorite. What I love most about these cherry pie bars is how incredibly simple they are to whip up, making them a go-to treat for busy days. Plus, they’re ideal for sharing at potlucks or simply indulging with a cup of coffee at home. Curious about how you can bring this sweet delight to your table? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are these Cherry Pie Bars a treat?

Irresistible sweetness: Each bite showcases the perfect harmony of sweet and tart flavors, guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Beginner-friendly recipe: You don’t need to be a seasoned baker to master these easy cherry pie bars.
Versatile variations: Feel free to customize the filling or extracts for a new twist each time you make them!
Perfect for sharing: Ideal for potlucks or family gatherings, these bars are sure to impress your guests.
Quick and convenient: With minimal prep time, you can enjoy fresh-baked goodness without spending all day in the kitchen.
These cherry pie bars are not only delicious, but they also make a great addition to gatherings! For even more ideas, check out our guide on serving suggestions.

Cherry Pie Bars Ingredients

• Unveil the simple elements that make these Easy Cherry Pie Bars irresistible!

For the Crust

Real Butter – Provides richness and creates a flaky crust; substitute with dairy-free butter for a non-dairy option.
Sugar – Sweetens the crust and filling perfectly.
Eggs – Binds ingredients and contributes to texture; using room temperature eggs ensures better mixing.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the crust; gluten-free flour blends can work as an effective substitute.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the flavor profile.

For the Filling

Canned Cherry Pie Filling – Offers convenience and consistent flavor; opting for one made with real cherries elevates the taste.

For the Glaze

Confectioners’ Sugar – Adds sweetness and visual appeal when glazing the bars.
Pure Almond Extract – Introduces a delightful nutty aroma; feel free to switch this with vanilla for a different taste twist.
Vanilla Extract – Complements the almond flavor and enhances the bars’ overall profile.
Milk – Adjust to achieve the desired glaze consistency.

Now that you have all the essential ingredients for these scrumptious Cherry Pie Bars, it’s time to bring this delicious recipe to life! Get ready for an unforgettable treat.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Cherry Pie Bars

Step 1: Prepare Dough
Start by creaming together 1 cup of softened real butter with 1 cup of sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, which takes about 3–5 minutes using an electric mixer. Then, add 2 room-temperature eggs along with 1 teaspoon of almond extract and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Gradually incorporate 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and ½ teaspoon of salt, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Assemble
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15×10-inch baking pan, then press half of the dough firmly into the bottom of the pan to create an even crust. Next, spread 1 can (21 oz) of cherry pie filling evenly over the crust. Using small dollops, place the remaining dough over the cherry filling to create a rustic topping, ensuring bits of the cherry filling peek through.

Step 3: Bake
Place the assembled cherry pie bars in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking, as you want that beautiful golden hue on top. Once done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 4: Cool and Glaze
Once the easy cherry pie bars have completely cooled in the baking pan, prepare the glaze. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar with 1 teaspoon of almond extract, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a splash of milk to reach your desired glaze consistency. Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled bars for a sweet finishing touch.

Step 5: Serve and Store
After glazing, allow the cherry pie bars to set for a few minutes before cutting them into squares. These delightful cherry pie bars can be enjoyed immediately or stored covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Cherry Pie Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by combining the butter, sugar, eggs, almond extract, vanilla, flour, and salt, and store it wrapped in the refrigerator. Additionally, the cherry filling can be spread in the pan a day ahead, just keep it covered. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven, add the remaining dollops of dough on top, and bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy the delightful flavors of homemade cherry pie bars with minimal effort on busy weeknights, ensuring they taste just as delicious and fresh!

Expert Tips for Cherry Pie Bars

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for smooth mixing, preventing lumps in the dough.
Quality Filling: Use high-quality canned cherry pie filling for the best flavor. Look for options with real cherries to elevate your cherry pie bars.
Overnight Rest: Let the bars sit overnight before serving; this enhances the flavor as the ingredients meld beautifully.
Even Baking: Bake until the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles for a perfectly finished cherry pie bar. Avoid underbaking to ensure both crust and filling are cooked through.
Mixing Tools: An electric mixer can help cream the butter and sugar effortlessly, making preparation smoother and faster.

Cherry Pie Bars Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these creative twists and substitutions to make the recipe truly your own!

Fruit Filling: Swap out cherry for your choice of fruit fillings, like blueberry, peach, or mixed berry for delightful taste changes.
Citrus Twist: Replace almond extract with lemon juice for a refreshing, zesty flavor that complements the sweetness perfectly.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or vegan butter as a substitute for real butter to create a delicious dairy-free version that everyone can enjoy.
Nutty Additions: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the crust for an extra crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling to elevate the warmth and aroma, bringing cozy vibes to your dessert!
Flavorful Glaze: Instead of a simple glaze, try infusing the glaze with fresh lemon or lime juice for a bright finish that adds zing.
Additional Toppings: Top your bars with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to bring ultimate indulgence to your treat!
Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cherry pie bars for a delightful contrast of flavors.

Every bite can offer new surprises and experiences; so don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors you might already have on hand!

What to Serve with Easy Cherry Pie Bars

Delight in creating a memorable meal by pairing your homemade treat with complementary flavors and textures.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy richness of vanilla ice cream highlights the tart cherry filling beautifully.
Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a luscious texture that balances the sweetness of the bars perfectly.
Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavors of coffee enhance the sweet, tart notes of cherry, making for a satisfying afternoon pick-me-up.
Almond Biscotti: Crunchy and nutty, these cookies will echo the almond extract in the bars, creating a lovely flavor connection.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and a hint of acidity that complements the sugary goodness of the pie bars.
Sparkling Lemonade: The effervescent bubbles and tangy notes of lemonade serve as a refreshing counterpoint to the sweet dessert.
Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of dark chocolate ganache can elevate the taste with rich, decadent flavors that mingle with the cherry.
Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses pairs beautifully with the sweet cherry bars, providing a delightful contrast of flavors.
Homemade Lemon Sorbet: This light dessert offers a zesty finish, cleansing your palate while harmonizing with the sweet cherry filling.

How to Store and Freeze Cherry Pie Bars

Room Temperature: Keep your cherry pie bars covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Fridge: If you’d like to extend their shelf life, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating: If you prefer them warm, reheat the thawed bars in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their flaky texture.

Easy Cherry Pie Bars Recipe FAQs

What type of cherries should I use for the filling?
For the best flavor in your cherry pie bars, opt for high-quality canned cherry pie filling with real cherries. If you’d like to use fresh cherries, make a simple homemade filling by pitting and cooking about 2 cups of fresh cherries with sugar and a splash of vanilla or almond extract until the cherries soften and release their juices.

How do I store leftover cherry pie bars?
Store your cherry pie bars covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for about a week. This will help preserve their delicious flavors and textures without sacrificing quality.

Can I freeze cherry pie bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled cherry pie bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for about 1-2 hours before serving. If you like, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain their freshly-baked texture.

What should I do if my cherry pie bars crumble when cutting?
If your cherry pie bars are crumbling, it’s likely due to an underbaked crust or too much flour. Be sure to check for that perfect golden brown color and a bubbly filling before removing them from the oven. If you see them starting to brown well but are still soft, let them cool completely before cutting; they will firm up as they cool. If your dough gets too dry, ensure you are using the correct measurements for your ingredients and avoid overmixing—less is sometimes more!

Can I make these cherry pie bars dairy-free?
Yes! You can substitute the real butter with a high-quality dairy-free butter or margarine for a dairy-free option. Just make sure you’re also using dairy-free options for any glaze ingredients if desired. Enjoy your sweet treat without compromising on your dietary preferences!

Are cherry pie bars safe for pets?
While the ingredients in cherry pie bars are generally safe for humans, be cautious with pets. Cherries can be toxic to dogs, so it’s best to keep these bars away from them. Always check if a food is safe for your furry friends before sharing!