Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor
As the seasons shift and summer begins to grace us with its vibrant colors and flavors, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a delightful cherry dessert. Whether you’re celebrating a family gathering or simply want a sweet treat for yourself, these Easy Cherry Pie Bars are the perfect solution. Bursting with flavor from juicy cherries and a buttery, crumbly crust, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home. Plus, it’s simple enough for even beginner bakers, making it an ideal recipe to savor together with loved ones. If you’re eager for a delightful twist on traditional pie, you might also appreciate the fun of Cotton Candy Rice Krispies Twists or want to explore more desserts like Crispy Air Fryer Apple Pie Taquitos.
Ingredients & Equipment
For this delightful dessert, you’ll need some simple ingredients that are often staples in most kitchens. Here’s what you’ll need: You may also find Crispy Air Fryer Apple Pie Taquitos useful.
- 1 cup softened butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 (21 oz) can premium cherry pie filling
For the glaze: You may also find 5 Ultimate Steps To Make Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken And Rice useful.
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 tsp almond extract
- ½ tsp vanilla
- Milk as needed
Helpful Equipment
To make your baking process smoother, gather these tools:
- Mixing bowls
- A hand mixer or stand mixer
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula for spreading
Having the right equipment ready can make the baking experience even more enjoyable!
Step-by-Step Instructions (with tips)
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Cherry Pie Bars will bake evenly and develop a delicious golden crust.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 2-3 minutes. This process helps to incorporate air, leading to a light texture in your bars.
3. Add the Eggs and Extracts
Next, add the room temperature eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Continue to mix until everything is fully combined. These flavors complement the cherries beautifully, so don’t skimp on the extracts!
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
5. Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Press half of the dough into the bottom of the pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
6. Add the Cherry Filling
Once the dough is in place, spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the first layer. This will create a fruity, sweet center for your bars.
7. Add the Remaining Dough
Dollop the remaining half of the dough on top of the cherry filling. This can be done using a spoon or your hands to create a rustic look.
8. Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll want the top to be lightly browned and a toothpick inserted into the center will come out mostly clean.
9. Cool
Allow your Cherry Pie Bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This helps the bars set and makes for easier slicing.
10. Drizzle with Glaze
For the glaze, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, almond extract, vanilla, and enough milk to reach your desired consistency. Drizzle it over the cooled bars before serving for a touch of sweetness.
For those who love delightful desserts, exploring options like cowboy butter lemon bowtie chicken can also be an enjoyable variation to expand your recipe repertoire.
Storage, Freezing & Make-Ahead Tips
These Easy Cherry Pie Bars can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container. If you wish to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. To freeze, cut the bars into squares and wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature.
If you plan to make them ahead of time, consider preparing the dough and cherry filling the day before, and then assembling and baking them shortly before serving.
How to Use / Serve This Dish
Cherry Pie Bars are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Enjoy them plain, or add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top for an extra indulgence. You might even want to serve them alongside a cup of coffee for a perfect afternoon treat!
These bars also pair wonderfully with a fresh fruit salad or a dollop of yogurt for a lighter option. Don’t hesitate to get creative! If you have leftovers, you can use them as a delicious topping for plain yogurt or oatmeal.
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry filling?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh cherries, you can pit and slice about 2 cups of fresh cherries and mix them with a little sugar and cornstarch to create a thick filling.
What can I substitute for almond extract?
If almond extract isn’t available, you can use additional vanilla extract or even a splash of lemon extract for a different flavor profile.
How long do these bars last?
These Cherry Pie Bars can last up to 2 days at room temperature, or up to a week in the refrigerator. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
Conclusion
These Easy Cherry Pie Bars are more than just a dessert; they encapsulate summer’s sweet charm, inviting you to savor every bite. With their irresistible combination of flavors, whether shared during a casual dinner or enjoyed with family on the patio, they create lasting memories. For more cherry-themed delights, you might want to check out Cherry Pie Bars – The Country Cook or explore an inspiring recipe for Cherry Bars – Cravings of a Lunatic. Enjoy baking, and don’t forget to share the joy of your creation with someone special!
Easy Cherry Pie Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the room temperature eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. Press half of the dough into the bottom of the pan.
- Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the first layer of dough.
- Dollop the remaining dough on top of the cherry filling.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until the top is lightly browned and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
- Cool completely in the pan before cutting.
- Whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, almond extract, vanilla, and enough milk for desired consistency. Drizzle over cooled bars before serving.
