These Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic cherry pie, offering all the rich, fruity goodness in an easy-to-make bar form. With a buttery crust, luscious cherry filling, and a sweet almond glaze, these bars are perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply indulging in a homemade treat. The recipe is simple, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¾ teaspoon almond extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
For the Filling:
- 2 (21-ounce) cans cherry pie filling
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 15x10x1-inch baking pan and set aside.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, and salt until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla and almond extracts.
- Gradually mix in the flour until fully combined.
- Assemble the Bars:
- Spread 3 cups of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Spoon the cherry pie filling over the dough, spreading it evenly.
- Drop the remaining dough by teaspoonfuls over the filling.
- Bake:
- Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and milk until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Cut into squares and serve.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
These Cherry Pie Bars are a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of cherry pie without the hassle of rolling out dough. They’re easy to transport, slice, and serve, making them a go-to dessert for any occasion. You can explore a similar recipe here for additional variations and tips!
Would you like suggestions for different fillings or toppings?