Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor Recipe

If you’re looking to impress your family and friends with a dessert that’s both delightful and effortless, then these Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor are exactly what you need. This recipe combines a buttery, tender crust with a luscious cherry filling, finishing off with a sweet almond-glazed drizzle that brings everything together in a perfect harmony of flavors. Whether for a casual weeknight treat or a special occasion, these bars are guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these cherry pie bars just right. Each component plays a simple but important role, from the rich butter that gives the crust its tender texture to the cherry pie filling that brings vibrant flavor and color.

• 1 cup softened butter: The base of the crust, softened for easy mixing and a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
• 1 cup sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a delightfully crisp crust.
• 2 large eggs, room temperature: Provide structure and moisture to the dough.
• 1 tsp almond extract: A little goes a long way, adding a subtle nutty aroma that complements the cherries.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, familiar sweetness.
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The main building block for a tender, sturdy crust and topping.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors.
• 1 (21 oz) can premium cherry pie filling: Bursting with juicy cherries, this filling is the star of the dessert.
• For glaze: 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, 1 tsp almond extract, ½ tsp vanilla, and milk as needed — to drizzle the perfect finishing touch.

How to Make Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is perfectly warmed when the bars are ready to go in. Grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to make removing the bars later a breeze.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is critical because it adds air into the mixture, contributing to a tender and airy crust.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts

Next, incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the almond and vanilla extracts. These extracts infuse your dough with a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the cherry filling.

Step 4: Mix in Flour and Salt

Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—the goal is a soft dough that’s easy to press but won’t become tough.

Step 5: Press the Dough and Add Filling

Take half of the dough and firmly press it into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating an even layer. Then, spread the cherry pie filling evenly on top. The juicy cherries will create a wonderful contrast against the buttery crust.

Step 6: Add the Top Layer

Dollop the remaining dough over the cherry filling. Don’t worry if it doesn’t cover the filling completely—this rustic look adds charm and allows some cherries to peek through.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake the bars for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is set and lightly golden. Your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma that’s a guaranteed sign of a dessert done right.

Step 8: Drizzle the Glaze

Once the bars have cooled, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, almond extract, vanilla, and just enough milk to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle it generously over the bars for a sweet, glossy finish.

How to Serve Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor

Garnishes

To elevate these bars for your next gathering, consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves or a handful of toasted almonds for a bit of crunch. A dusting of powdered sugar or a scattering of fresh cherries can also add a beautiful pop of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

These cherry pie bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more sophisticated touch, serve alongside a cup of rich coffee or a glass of sparkling rosé to complement the sweet-and-tart flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these bars on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra cherry pie filling or almond glaze for guests to customize their slices. Alternatively, cut them into bite-sized squares for a party platter or picnic treat that’s as portable as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cherry pie bars covered at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for up to five days. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain their soft texture and prevent the glaze from drying out.

Freezing

These bars freeze wonderfully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

For a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste, warm your thawed bars in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the crust’s texture, but microwaving for short bursts in a pinch is fine too.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries will give a more natural flavor and less sweetness, but you’ll need to cook them down with sugar and a thickener like cornstarch before spreading them on the bars.

Is there a gluten-free version of these cherry pie bars?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for the best texture.

Can I make these bars vegan?

To veganize the recipe, replace butter with a plant-based margarine, use flax eggs (ground flaxseed and water) instead of eggs, and ensure your cherry filling and glaze ingredients are free from animal products.

What pan size should I use for these bars?

A 9×13 inch baking pan works perfectly, giving you bars that are thick enough to hold all that delicious filling and dough without being too dense.

How long do these cherry pie bars keep their freshness?

Freshly baked, they’re best enjoyed within three to five days when stored properly. Beyond that, the texture and flavor can begin to decline, but freezing can extend their life.

Final Thoughts

If you want a dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, these Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor are an absolute must-try. They’re straightforward to make, naturally delicious, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Trust me, once you bake a batch, you’ll find these bars sneaking their way into your regular dessert rotation.

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