These Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic cherry pie, offering a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors. Ideal for any occasion, from family gatherings to potlucks, these bars bring a touch of nostalgia while being incredibly easy to make. With a buttery shortbread crust and a crumbly topping, each bite is a burst of cherry goodness that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: These cherry pie bars require minimal effort and simple ingredients, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery crust and sweet cherry filling creates an irresistible dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth.
- Versatile Treat: Great for parties, holidays, or just a special weeknight treat, these bars fit any occasion.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare these bars in advance, making them a convenient choice for busy schedules.
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares, they are easy to transport and share with friends and family.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking these delicious Cherry Pie Bars, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×9-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×9-inch baking pan: This size ensures even cooking and helps maintain the shape of your bars.
- Electric mixer or whisk: A mixer saves time when creaming butter and sugar together for that fluffy texture.
- Parchment paper: Lining the pan with parchment makes it easy to remove the bars after baking without sticking.
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!
Amazon's Best Seller Pasta Bowls Are Almost Gone!
For the Crust and Topping
- 1 cup unsalted butter, barely 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
For the Cherry Filling
- 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 the oven to 350°F. Prepare your 9×9-inch pan by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl:
1. Beat 1 cup of barely softened butter with 3/4 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; mix until smooth.
3. Incorporate 2 cups flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 3/4 teaspoon salt; mix until combined, scraping down sides as needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Bars
- Press about two-thirds of the dough into the prepared pan evenly.
- Spread the cherry pie filling over this layer. If desired, bake the crust for an additional 5-10 minutes before adding filling for extra crispness.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the top of the filling, leaving spaces between them.
Step 4: Bake
Place in preheated oven and bake for about 20-30 minutes or until lightly golden on top. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare the Glaze
Once cooled:
1. Whisk together powdered sugar, almond extract (or vanilla), and milk until smooth.
2. Adjust consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar if needed.
Step 6: Drizzle & Serve
Drizzle glaze over cooled bars, refrigerate for about 10 minutes to set. Once set, slice into 16 bars and serve! Enjoy your delicious Cherry Pie Bars!
How to Serve Cherry Pie Bars
Cherry pie bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will enhance your dessert experience and impress your guests.
With a Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing that complements the sweet cherry filling beautifully.
- Almond Ice Cream: A nutty twist that brings out the almond extract in the bars.
Drizzled with Chocolate
- Melted Dark Chocolate: A rich contrast to the sweetness of the cherry filling.
- White Chocolate Sauce: Adds a creamy sweetness, making it even more indulgent.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it balances the richness of the bars perfectly.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or almond extract for an extra flavor boost.
Served with Fresh Fruit
- Berries: Strawberries or blueberries add a fresh touch and vibrant color.
- Sliced Bananas: A unique addition that pairs well with cherries.
How to Perfect Cherry Pie Bars
To make your cherry pie bars even more delicious, consider these simple tips. They will ensure you achieve the perfect texture and flavor every time.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality butter and real extracts for better flavor.
- Chill Your Dough: If the dough is too soft, refrigerate it briefly before pressing into the pan for easier handling.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your bars while baking; remove them from the oven when they are lightly golden to avoid dryness.
- Experiment with Fillings: Try other fruit fillings like blueberry or apple for a fun variation on this classic dessert.
- Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool ensures they set properly and are easier to slice.
Best Side Dishes for Cherry Pie Bars
Cherry pie bars can be complemented by several delicious side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside them:
- Coffee: A warm cup enhances the flavors of the bars and creates a cozy pairing.
- Tea: Herbal or black teas provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet cherry taste.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda to balance out the sweetness of dessert.
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and brightness to your meal.
- Nut Mix: A bowl of assorted nuts offers a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the bars.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a light, healthy option beside the rich dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cherry Pie Bars, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough bars. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
- Not Using Parchment Paper: Skipping parchment paper can make it hard to remove the bars from the pan. Always line your pan for easy serving and cleanup.
- Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting into the bars while they’re still warm can cause them to crumble. Let them cool completely for better slices.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold butter or eggs can affect the mixing process. Ensure your butter is barely softened for optimal creaminess.
- Baking Too Long or Short: Baking them for the wrong amount of time can lead to undercooked or overcooked bars. Keep an eye on them as they bake and look for that golden top.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking, to prevent sticking.
Freezing Cherry Pie Bars
- Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cherry Pie Bars
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and heat the bars for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, heating each bar for about 15-20 seconds depending on your microwave’s power.
- Stovetop: Place a non-stick skillet over low heat, adding bars one at a time until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Cherry Pie Bars without almond extract?
You can simply substitute almond extract with extra vanilla extract. It will change the flavor slightly but still taste delicious!
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can! Just cook down fresh cherries with sugar and cornstarch until thickened for a homemade filling.
What are some variations of Cherry Pie Bars?
You can customize these bars by adding nuts, using different fruit fillings, or even adding chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.
How do I know when my Cherry Pie Bars are done baking?
Look for a lightly golden top on the dough. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Final Thoughts
These Cherry Pie Bars are not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily adapt them by using different fruits or toppings, making them perfect for any occasion. Give this simple recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful flavors of cherry pie in convenient bar form!
Cherry Pie Bars
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 16 bars 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of Cherry Pie Bars, a modern twist on the classic cherry pie. With a buttery shortbread crust and a crumbly topping, these bars combine sweet and tart flavors in every bite. They’re perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or as a special treat during the week. Easy to prepare and share, you can whip them up with minimal effort. The addition of a simple glaze elevates these bars, making them irresistible to cherry lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 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 salt
- 21 ounces cherry pie filling (1 can)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon almond or vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla and almond extracts, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually incorporate flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
- Press about two-thirds of the dough into the prepared pan evenly, then spread the cherry pie filling over it.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough on top of the filling.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes or until lightly golden on top. Allow to cool completely before glazing.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, almond (or vanilla) extract, and milk until smooth; drizzle over cooled bars.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Grab This Chef Knife Now - Almost Gone!
Leave a Comment