Ingredients
For the Crust and Topping:
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp almond extract (optional, for a cherry almond twist)
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
For the Filling:
1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
Optional: 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cherries for added texture
For the Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tbsp milk or heavy cream
1/2 tsp vanilla or almond extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust and Topping
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until just combined.Step 2: Assemble the Bars
Spread about 2/3 of the dough evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the crust. If using fresh or frozen cherries, scatter them over the filling. Drop small spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the cherry filling, leaving some of the cherries visible for a rustic look.Step 3: Bake the Bars
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.Step 4: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk or cream, and extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars for a sweet finish.Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once the bars are completely cooled and the glaze has set, cut them into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy!Notes
Custom Filling: Swap cherry pie filling for blueberry, apple, or your favorite fruit filling to switch up the flavor.
Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing: These bars freeze well! Wrap individual bars tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
These Cherry Pie Bars deliver all the flavors of cherry pie in an easy-to-make, shareable form. They’re buttery, fruity, and downright addictive!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Bars
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cherry Pie Bars, Cherry Bars, Pie Bars, Dessert Bars, Cherry Dessert, Easy Dessert, Baking Recipes