Indulge in Irresistible Cherry Pie Bars: Easy Recipe to Try!

Get ready to delight your taste buds with the ultimate Cherry Pie Bars! These delectable bars combine a buttery shortbread crust, a luscious cherry filling, and a sweet glaze for a dessert that’s simply impossible to resist. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a holiday gathering, or simply craving a homemade treat, Cherry Pie Bars are sure to become your new go-to crowd-pleasing creation.

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The Versatility and Charm of Cherry Pie Bars

Dessert bars have long been a beloved staple in the baking world, offering the perfect balance of convenience and indulgence. Cherry Pie Bars, in particular, have captured the hearts (and palates) of dessert enthusiasts everywhere. Their irresistible combination of a buttery crust, juicy cherry filling, and sweet glaze makes them a true crowd-pleaser that’s suitable for any occasion.

What sets Cherry Pie Bars apart is their ability to seamlessly transition from a casual backyard gathering to a formal dinner party. Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent treat, or enjoy them on their own as a satisfying afternoon snack. No matter how you choose to indulge, these bars are sure to leave your guests begging for more.

Ingredient Breakdown: The Key to Perfection

The secret to mouthwatering Cherry Pie Bars lies in the carefully selected ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at the key components that come together to create this irresistible dessert:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of the buttery shortbread crust, providing structure and a tender texture.
• 2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the crust and complements the tart cherry filling.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• 4 large eggs – Binds the dough together and gives the bars their signature chewy consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a warm, aromatic note that complements the cherries.
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract – Provides a subtle but delightful almond undertone.
• 2 (21-ounce) cans cherry pie filling – The star of the show, delivering a burst of juicy, sweet cherry flavor.

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect Cherry Pie Bars. The flour and sugar form the foundation, while the eggs, vanilla, and almond extracts add depth and complexity to the flavors. Of course, the cherry pie filling is the true hero, providing the signature taste that makes these bars so irresistible.

Preparing the Cherry Pie Bars

Now that we’ve explored the key ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of assembling these mouthwatering bars:

Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 15 × 10 × 1-inch baking pan. This will ensure your Cherry Pie Bars bake evenly and release easily from the pan.

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the flour, sugar, and salt until well combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts, creating a smooth, cohesive dough.

Assemble the Layers

Spread approximately 3 cups of the dough into the prepared baking pan, creating an even base layer. Next, pour the two cans of cherry pie filling over the dough, distributing it evenly across the surface.

Top and Bake

To finish, drop the remaining dough by teaspoonfuls over the cherry layer, creating a delightful crumble-like topping. Bake the Cherry Pie Bars for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Perfecting the Glaze

While the bars are cooling, it’s time to whip up the irresistible glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of almond extract, and enough milk (2-3 tablespoons) to reach a drizzle-like consistency. Drizzle this sweet glaze over the cooled Cherry Pie Bars, adding the final touch of indulgence.

Serving and Enjoying Cherry Pie Bars

Once the Cherry Pie Bars have cooled completely in the pan on a wire rack, it’s time to cut them into squares and serve. For the cleanest slices, use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, and consider lightly scoring the surface before cutting all the way through. If the bars are sticking to the pan, run the knife along the edges first to release them.

Cherry Pie Bars pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Their rich, buttery crust, gooey cherry filling, and sweet glaze make them an irresistible treat that’s sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.

Variations and Add-Ons

While the classic Cherry Pie Bars are a true delight, you can also experiment with different flavors and textures to create your own unique spin on this beloved dessert. Consider adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch. For a twist on the fruit filling, you can substitute the cherry with other options like blueberry, peach, or a mixed berry medley.

If you’re looking to add a bit of indulgence, fold in some chocolate chips or drizzle the bars with a chocolate glaze. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own.

FAQs About Cherry Pie Bars

How can I tell when my Cherry Pie Bars are done baking?

To determine if your Cherry Pie Bars are done baking, look for a few key indicators. The top should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick or a knife into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the bars are ready. Additionally, the edges should start to pull away from the sides of the pan. Keep in mind that baking times may vary depending on your oven, so it’s always good to start checking a few minutes before the suggested time.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries to make Cherry Pie Bars! To do this, you will need to pit and slice about 4 cups of fresh cherries. Cook them down with sugar, cornstarch, and a bit of lemon juice over medium heat until the mixture thickens and becomes syrupy. This homemade filling can then be spread over the crust just like canned cherry pie filling. Fresh cherries will give a delightful, more natural flavor, but you may need to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your cherries.

What is the best way to cut Cherry Pie Bars for serving?

To achieve clean, even slices of your Cherry Pie Bars, allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut them. For neater cuts, you can lightly score the surface of the bars before cutting all the way through. If you find the bars sticking to the pan, consider running the knife along the edges first. For a decorative touch, serve each bar with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.

Can I add other flavors or ingredients to my Cherry Pie Bars?

Absolutely! Cherry Pie Bars are quite versatile. You can enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of almond extract or lemon zest to the dough. For added texture, consider mixing in nuts like walnuts or pecans, or chocolate chips for a sweet twist. If you want to experiment with different fruit flavors, you can replace the cherry filling with alternatives like blueberry, peach, or a combination of berries. Just ensure that the total amount of filling remains similar to maintain the correct texture.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese
• Birria Tacos
• Bruschetta Chicken Pasta
• Honey Mustard Chicken

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Cherry Pie Bars and let your taste buds take a delightful journey. Whether you serve them at a family gathering, a potluck, or simply enjoy them as a personal treat, these bars are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the ultimate cherry-filled delight!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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