Cherry pie bars are a delicious twist on classic cherry pie, combining a buttery, soft shortbread-like base with a sweet, tart cherry filling. These bars are easy to slice, making them ideal for gatherings, potlucks, and dessert tables. With the satisfying flavor of cherries and the sweet hint of almond, they’re a perfect balance between simplicity and richness. Let’s dive into the recipe to create these irresistible cherry pie bars from scratch!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- For the Bars:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp almond extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
- For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract
- 2 tbsp milk
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15×10-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Use a hand or stand mixer for the best results.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Step 2: Assemble the Bars
- Spread about two-thirds of the batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to evenly distribute it.
- Spread the cherry pie filling over the batter layer, ensuring an even coating of cherries and syrup.
- Take spoonfuls of the remaining batter and drop it over the cherry layer. It doesn’t need to cover completely, as it will spread during baking.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the batter (not the cherry filling) comes out clean.
- Let the bars cool in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and milk until smooth.
- Once the bars are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top.
Step 5: Cut and Serve
- Slice the cooled bars into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference.
- Enjoy these cherry pie bars as is, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Note: Based on a 2×2-inch bar
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use homemade cherry pie filling?
A: Absolutely! Using homemade filling can add a unique flavor. Just make sure it’s thick enough to avoid overly runny bars.
Q: Can I substitute almond extract?
A: If you prefer a simpler flavor, feel free to omit the almond extract or replace it with more vanilla extract.
Q: Can I freeze these bars?
A: Yes, you can! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Tips for Making the Perfect Cherry Pie Bars:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature butter and eggs blend more smoothly, resulting in a lighter texture for the bars.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can make the bars dense and tough, so stir just until combined.
- Opt for High-Quality Cherry Filling: A high-quality cherry pie filling will enhance the flavor, giving you that fresh, juicy cherry taste.
- Add a Touch of Lemon: If you prefer a bit more acidity, add 1 tbsp of lemon zest to the batter or drizzle lemon juice into the glaze.
- Let the Bars Cool Completely Before Glazing: This prevents the glaze from melting into the bars and ensures a beautiful presentation.
Storage Tips:
Refrigerator: Store cherry pie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The bars maintain a nice texture and flavor when chilled.
Freezer: To freeze, first allow the bars to cool completely, then cut them into individual squares. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. These bars freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving, and add an extra drizzle of fresh glaze if desired.
Conclusion:
Cherry pie bars are a delightful, portable version of the traditional pie, packed with cherry flavor, a buttery crust, and a touch of almond. These bars strike the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making them a favorite among dessert lovers. They’re simple enough to prepare yet impressive to serve, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just craving a cherry treat, this recipe will quickly become a go-to.