Description
Sweet, buttery, and bursting with juicy cherries, Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the nostalgic flavor of cherry pie with the ease of a bar cookie. With a soft, golden crust, fruity filling, and a vanilla glaze drizzle, these bars are perfect for potlucks, picnics, holidays, or just when you’re craving a sweet treat.
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Ingredients
For the Dough:
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1¾ cups granulated sugar
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4 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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½ tsp almond extract (optional but highly recommended)
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp salt
For the Filling:
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1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
For the Glaze:
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2–3 tbsp milk
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½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Dough Base
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and almond extract.
Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing just until combined. The dough will be thick and sticky.
Step 3: Layer the Base
Spread about ⅔ of the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or lightly floured fingers to press it into a smooth layer.
Step 4: Add the Cherry Filling
Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the dough layer, spreading gently to cover the surface.
Step 5: Add the Top Layer
Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the cherry filling. It won’t cover the entire surface—and that’s okay. The cherry will peek through after baking.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the dough (not the cherry part) comes out clean.
Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.
Step 7: Drizzle with Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bars with a spoon or fork. Let the glaze set before cutting into squares.
Notes
Use Room Temp Ingredients – Makes mixing smoother and more consistent.
Don’t Overmix – Once flour is added, mix just until combined for a soft texture.
Almond Extract Boosts Flavor – A little goes a long way and pairs beautifully with cherries.
Cool Before Glazing – Ensure the bars are fully cool or the glaze will melt into the top.
Line the Pan – Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Cuisine: American