If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dessert, these Delightful Cherry Pie Bars are the perfect treat. With their soft, buttery base and sweet cherry pie filling, these bars strike the perfect balance between tart and sweet. They’re ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, holiday party, or just a delicious snack at home. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these cherry pie bars will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp almond extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
How to Prepare
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla and almond extracts.
- Combine flour and salt; gradually add to the creamed mixture and mix well.
- Spread 3 cups of batter evenly into the prepared pan. Spread cherry pie filling over the batter.
- Drop remaining batter in small clumps over the filling.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the cake portion comes out clean. Cool on a wire rack.
Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 40 minutes | Total time: 1 hour | Servings: about 24 bars
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade cherry pie filling instead of canned?
Yes! You can absolutely use homemade cherry pie filling if you prefer. Just make sure it’s the same quantity (around 21 oz) to match the recipe, and ensure that the filling is thick enough to hold up during baking.
2. Can I substitute other fruit fillings for the cherry pie filling?
Definitely! This recipe is versatile, and you can substitute any fruit pie filling, such as apple, blueberry, or peach. Just keep in mind that different fruits may alter the overall flavor, but the bars will still be delicious.
3. How should I store leftover cherry pie bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
4. Can I add a glaze or topping to the bars?
Yes, you can drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the bars for added sweetness and a decorative touch. Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk or lemon juice until smooth, and drizzle it over the cooled bars.
5. How do I know when the bars are fully baked?
The bars are ready when a toothpick inserted into the cake portion comes out clean and the top is lightly golden brown. If your oven bakes unevenly, you can rotate the pan halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.
These Delightful Cherry Pie Bars offer a burst of fruity flavor wrapped in a buttery, tender crust. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed on their own, they’re a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to leave everyone asking for more. Perfectly sweet and slightly tart, these bars are the go-to dessert when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy them with your next gathering, and watch them disappear in no time!