Description
Sweet, buttery, and bursting with cherry pie flavor, these Cherry Pie Bars are a dessert lover’s dream. They take all the goodness of a classic cherry pie—sweet-tart filling, tender crust, and a hint of almond—and turn it into an easy-to-make bar that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re baking for a picnic, holiday, or just a cozy night in, these bars are a guaranteed hit.
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Ingredients
For the Dough:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1¾ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp almond extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
For the Filling:
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (use premium or homemade if you prefer)
For the Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk (plus more as needed)
¼ tsp almond extract (optional, for a classic flavor twist)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in vanilla and almond extracts.
Gradually stir in flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Assemble the Bars
Spread about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Pour cherry pie filling over the dough and spread to cover the entire surface.
Drop small spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the top of the cherry filling. The dough will spread and bake into a beautiful, golden topping.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the top is lightly golden and the cherry filling is bubbly around the edges.
Let bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before glazing.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract (if using) until smooth and pourable.
Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled bars.
Step 6: Slice & Serve
Once the glaze has set, slice into bars and serve.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Notes
Don’t Overbake – Remove once the top is golden and set.
Use Real Butter – For a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Add Almond Slices – Sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking for extra crunch.
Chill Before Slicing – Makes cleaner cuts and easier serving.
Make It Yours – Swap cherry for blueberry, apple, or raspberry filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Cuisine: American