Easy Cherry Pie Bars

Cherry desserts hold a special place in my heart, especially this easy cherry pie bars recipe that’s been a family favorite for years. My grandmother first shared it with me during summer holidays when cherries were in season. It’s simple to make, yet bursting with sweet and tart flavors enhanced by a hint of almond extract—a secret twist that makes these bars irresistible. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student craving a quick treat, or a baking enthusiast looking for a new classic, this homemade cherry pie bars recipe is your go-to. Plus, if you love discovering new recipes, be sure to browse our Pinterest boards where we share plenty of sweet and simple recipes, including an entire collection dedicated to cherry delights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet cherries and almond extract creates a rich flavor that will impress everyone.
• Versatile Serving Options: These bars can be served warm with ice cream or at room temperature as a delightful snack.
• Perfect for Gatherings: With 24 servings, they are ideal for potlucks and family gatherings.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids love these cherry pie bars; they are fun to eat and perfect for little hands.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your easy cherry pie bars, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pan (9×13 inches)
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise measurements for consistent results every time.
• Baking pan: A sturdy pan helps achieve even baking, resulting in perfectly cooked bars.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 cup softened butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temp
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt

For the Filling

• 1 (21 oz) can premium cherry pie filling

For the Glaze

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 tsp almond extract
• ½ tsp vanilla
• Milk as needed

How to Make Easy Cherry Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your easy cherry pie bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In a mixing bowl:
   1. Use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   2. Add in the eggs along with almond extract and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

1. In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour and salt.
2. Gradually add this mixture into the wet ingredients using low speed until just combined.
3. Press half of the dough firmly into the bottom of your greased baking pan.

Step 4: Add Cherry Filling

1. Spread the premium cherry pie filling evenly over the dough layer in the pan.

Step 5: Top with Remaining Dough

1. Dollop spoonfuls of the remaining dough on top of the cherry filling. Do not worry about covering it completely; some gaps are fine.

Step 6: Bake

1. Bake in your preheated oven for about 35–40 minutes or until golden brown on top. Let cool completely before drizzling with glaze.

Step 7: Drizzle Glaze and Serve

1. To make the glaze:
   1. In a small bowl, combine confectioners’ sugar, almond extract, vanilla, and enough milk to reach desired consistency.
   2. Drizzle over cooled bars before slicing into squares.

Enjoy these easy cherry pie bars at your next gathering or as a sweet treat anytime!

How to Serve Easy Cherry Pie Bars

Easy cherry pie bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want to enjoy them at home, here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dessert experience.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream complements the cherry flavors perfectly and adds a creamy texture.
• Try almond or cherry-flavored ice cream for an extra twist.

Serve Warm with Whipped Cream

• Warm up the bars slightly before serving for a comforting touch.
• Top with fresh whipped cream for added sweetness and richness.

Create Mini Dessert Platters

• Cut the bars into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter.
• Add fresh cherries, nuts, and small chocolate pieces for variety.

Garnish with Fresh Cherries

• Top each bar with a few fresh cherries for a pop of color.
• This enhances both presentation and flavor.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• A light drizzle of chocolate sauce adds a decadent touch.
• This combination of cherry and chocolate is always a crowd-pleaser.

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How to Perfect Easy Cherry Pie Bars

To make your easy cherry pie bars even better, follow these tips that ensure every bite is delicious.

• Use quality ingredients: Better ingredients lead to better flavor. Opt for premium cherry pie filling and real butter.
• Let them cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool helps them set properly, making cutting easier and neater.
• Add more almond extract: If you love the flavor of almond, try adding a bit more to the dough for an extra burst of taste.
• Experiment with toppings: Consider adding chopped nuts or coconut flakes on top before baking for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Cherry Pie Bars

Easy cherry pie bars can be paired with several side dishes that complement their sweet and tart profile. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Vanilla Custard – A creamy custard balances the tartness of the cherries beautifully.
2. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad adds freshness and is a healthy counterpoint to the rich bars.
3. Cheesecake Bites – These provide a rich, creamy contrast that pairs wonderfully with cherry flavors.
4. Coffee or Espresso – A warm cup brings out the flavors in desserts and enhances their sweetness.
5. Chocolate Chip Cookies – Classic cookies add another layer of indulgence to your dessert spread.
6. Pecan Pie Bars – For nut lovers, these bring different textures while still satisfying your sweet tooth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Cherry Pie Bars can be a breeze, but a few common mistakes can ruin your dessert. Here are some to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour. Too much can make your bars dense instead of light and fluffy.
• Overbaking the bars: Keep an eye on them while they bake. Overbaking can lead to dry bars, so check for a golden-brown color.
• Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds a delightful finish to your bars. Don’t skip it; it enhances both flavor and presentation.
• Ignoring cooling time: Let the bars cool completely before cutting. This prevents them from falling apart and allows flavors to meld.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers for easier serving.

Freezing Easy Cherry Pie Bars

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Easy Cherry Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid to warm evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Easy Cherry Pie Bars special?

These bars combine sweet and tart cherry flavors with a hint of almond extract, making them unique and delicious.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries! Just pit and slice them, then sweeten slightly if needed before adding them.

How do I customize my Easy Cherry Pie Bars?

Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture or swap out the cherry filling for another fruit variety.

How long do Easy Cherry Pie Bars last?

When stored properly, they will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Cherry Pie Bars are perfect for any occasion—from family gatherings to casual snacks. Their delightful combination of flavors makes them irresistible. Plus, you can easily customize this recipe with different fruits or toppings. Try making them today; you’ll love how simple yet satisfying they are!