Easy Cherry Pie Bars

why make this recipe

Easy Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the best of cherry pie and cookie bars. They are simple to make, and the flavors are absolutely delicious. Whether you are looking for a sweet treat for a family gathering, a picnic, or just a cozy night at home, these bars fit the bill. Plus, they are perfect for cherry lovers and can be made with minimal effort.

how to make Easy Cherry Pie Bars

Ingredients:

• 1 cup softened butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 (21 oz) can premium cherry pie filling
• For glaze:
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 tsp almond extract
  • ½ tsp vanilla
  • Milk as needed

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract to the mixture and mix well.
4. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until fully combined.
5. Press half of the dough into the bottom of a greased baking pan.
6. Evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the dough.
7. Use the remaining dough to dollop on top of the cherry filling.
8. Bake in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes until golden brown.
9. Allow the bars to cool completely.
10. Drizzle the glaze over the top before serving.

how to serve Easy Cherry Pie Bars

Once your Easy Cherry Pie Bars have cooled and the glaze has been drizzled over, cut them into squares. They can be served warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy them as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family.

how to store Easy Cherry Pie Bars

To store your Easy Cherry Pie Bars, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well if freezing to avoid freezer burn.

tips to make Easy Cherry Pie Bars

• Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Use a premium cherry pie filling for the best flavor.
• Don’t worry if the top looks a little uneven; it adds to the homemade charm!
• Feel free to sprinkle some chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the dough for added flavor.

variation

You can easily turn this recipe into other flavors! Instead of cherry, try using blueberry, apple, or peach pie filling. Each fruit will bring its unique taste to the bars, making them versatile for any occasion.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries, but be sure to pit and slice them first. You may want to add some sugar and cornstarch to thicken the mixture.

Is it necessary to add almond extract?
Almond extract adds a nice flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can omit it or substitute it with additional vanilla extract.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, just use a gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute instead of regular flour. The texture might vary slightly, but they should still taste wonderful!

Easy Cherry Pie Bars

Delightful dessert bars that combine cherry pie flavors with cookie bar simplicity, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 12 squares

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the bars

• 1 cup softened butter Ensure butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon almond extract Adds flavor; can be omitted or replaced with vanilla extract.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour Can be substituted with gluten-free flour.
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 1 can (21 oz) premium cherry pie filling For best flavor.

For the glaze

• 1 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1 teaspoon almond extract Optional.
• 0.5 teaspoon vanilla
• as needed milk Milk as needed To achieve desired glaze consistency.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract to the mixture and mix well.
4. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until fully combined.
5. Press half of the dough into the bottom of a greased baking pan.
6. Evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the dough.
7. Use the remaining dough to dollop on top of the cherry filling.
8. Bake in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes until golden brown.
9. Allow the bars to cool completely.
10. Drizzle the glaze over the top before serving.

Notes

Bars can be served warm or at room temperature. For an extra treat, enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, refrigerated for up to a week, or frozen for up to 3 months.