These Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the traditional cherry pie. Perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or any dessert table, they feature a buttery shortbread crust paired with sweet cherry pie filling and a crumbly topping. Each bite is packed with flavor, making them an irresistible treat that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These bars come together in just 45 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy them as a dessert or snack; they fit perfectly into any occasion.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With their sweet cherry filling and crumbly topping, they are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Make Ahead Option: They can be prepared in advance and stored, perfect for meal prepping or entertaining.
- Minimal Ingredients: Made with simple pantry staples, you won’t need to hunt for exotic items.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gathering your tools will make the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Cherry Pie Bars.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Parchment paper
- 9×9 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- 9×9 inch baking pan: The ideal size for evenly baked bars.
- Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve light and fluffy butter and sugar mixture quickly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient quantities for consistent results.
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!
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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 Filling and Glaze
- 21 ounces cherry pie filling, 1 can
- 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 baking 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 the mixture is light and fluffy.
2. Add in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon almond extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, and 3/4 teaspoon salt. Mix until combined, scraping down the sides as needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Bars
Press about two-thirds of the dough into the prepared pan. You can use a piece of parchment paper to help press it down evenly. Spread the cherry pie filling over this layer. If you prefer a crisper crust:
– Bake this base for 5-10 minutes before adding the filling.
Step 4: Add Topping
Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough evenly over the cherry filling, leaving some space between each spoonful. Bake in your preheated oven for 20-30 minutes until lightly golden on top. Once baked, allow it to cool completely in the pan.
Step 5: Prepare Glaze
Once cooled:
– Whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1/4 teaspoon almond extract, and 1 Tablespoon milk. Adjust consistency with more milk or sugar if necessary.
– Drizzle this glaze over your cooled bars. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes to set.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
After setting, slice into 16 bars. Serve them chilled or at room temperature for a delightful dessert experience!
How to Serve Cherry Pie Bars
Cherry pie bars are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with various accompaniments for a delightful treat.
Pair with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that complements the sweet and tart flavors of the cherry filling.
- Almond Ice Cream: This nutty flavor enhances the almond extract in the bars, creating a harmonious dessert experience.
Drizzle with Sauce
- Chocolate Sauce: A rich chocolate drizzle adds a decadent touch to your cherry pie bars.
- Caramel Sauce: The sweetness of caramel pairs beautifully with the tart cherries for an indulgent treat.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Sliced Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a pop of color and a refreshing taste alongside the cherry pie bars.
- Whipped Cream Topping: Light and airy whipped cream enhances the overall texture and flavor profile.
Serve with Beverages
- Coffee: The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of cherry pie bars, making for a perfect afternoon snack.
- Sweet Tea: A refreshing glass of sweet tea is an excellent companion for these fruity delights.
How to Perfect Cherry Pie Bars
Perfecting your cherry pie bars can elevate them from good to great. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your baking success.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh cherries or high-quality cherry pie filling will make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Chill Your Dough: Chilling the dough before pressing it into the pan helps to prevent it from becoming too soft during baking.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your bars while they bake; removing them when they’re lightly golden ensures they stay soft and chewy.
- Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully before cutting helps maintain their shape and prevents messiness when serving.
Best Side Dishes for Cherry Pie Bars
Pairing side dishes with cherry pie bars can create a memorable dessert experience. Here are some tasty options to consider:
- Vanilla Pudding: Creamy vanilla pudding adds richness that contrasts nicely with the tartness of cherries.
- Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide a tangy balance that complements the sweet cherry flavors.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers freshness and brightness, enhancing your dessert spread.
- Pecan Pie Bites: These bite-sized treats add another layer of texture and flavor that works well with cherry pie bars.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Soft cookies add a different flavor profile while keeping things sweet and comforting.
- Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of granola can add crunch and nutty depth, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making cherry pie bars can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using cold butter: Cold butter can result in a tough crust. Make sure your butter is barely softened for the best texture.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to dense bars. Mix until just combined for a light and crumbly texture.
- Ignoring the baking time: Baking times can vary based on ovens. Keep an eye on your cherry pie bars and remove them when they’re lightly golden.
- Not cooling completely: Cutting the bars before they cool can cause them to crumble. Allow them to cool fully for clean slices.
- Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds extra sweetness and flavor. Don’t skip it if you want a delicious finishing touch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cherry pie bars in an airtight container in the fridge.
- They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Freezing Cherry Pie Bars
- Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cherry Pie Bars
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the bars for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place a bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20-30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Cherry Pie Bars from scratch?
You can easily make cherry pie bars from scratch by following this recipe, which includes making a buttery shortbread crust topped with sweet cherry pie filling.
Can I use frozen cherries instead of pie filling?
Yes! You can use fresh or frozen cherries, just ensure they are pitted and sweetened well before using them as a filling.
How long do Cherry Pie Bars last?
Cherry pie bars will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I customize my Cherry Pie Bars?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, other fruits, or even mix different extracts into the dough for unique flavors.
What is the best way to serve Cherry Pie Bars?
Cherry pie bars are best served chilled with a drizzle of glaze on top. They make a delightful dessert at any gathering!
Final Thoughts
These cherry pie bars offer a delightful twist on traditional cherry pie, combining ease of preparation with incredible flavor. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various toppings or fillings, making them perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!
Cherry Pie Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Cherry Pie Bars are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that brings the classic flavors of cherry pie into a convenient bar form. With a buttery shortbread crust, sweet cherry filling, and a crumbly topping, these bars are perfect for any occasion—be it family gatherings, picnics, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. They come together in just 45 minutes and require minimal ingredients, making them an ideal choice for last-minute treats. The delightful combination of flavors is sure to impress family and friends alike!
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 fine sea salt
- 21 ounces cherry pie filling (1 can)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla and almond extracts.
- Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until combined.
- Press two-thirds of the dough into the prepared pan. Spread the cherry filling over this layer.
- Drop spoonfuls of remaining dough on top of the filling. Bake for 20-30 minutes until golden.
- Allow to cool completely before drizzling with a glaze made from powdered sugar, almond extract, and milk.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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