Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s quick, easy, and simply delicious, you’ve come to the right place! These Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor have been a cherished recipe in my family for years. The moment you take your first bite, you’ll understand why they are such a hit at gatherings, potlucks, or even just cozy nights at home. The combination of sweet cherry filling with a buttery crust creates a treat that’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re preparing for a last-minute gathering or just want something delightful to enjoy after dinner.

What I love most about this recipe is how it brings everyone together. It’s an approachable way to bake, making it perfect for new bakers and seasoned pros alike. Plus, the hint of almond extract adds a unique twist that elevates these bars from ordinary to extraordinary!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Simple: With just a few easy steps, you can whip up these cherry pie bars in no time.
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves the sweet and tart flavor combo—kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake these bars ahead of time and store them for later; they taste great even after a couple of days!
• Deliciously Versatile: You can easily tweak the recipe with different fruits or toppings if cherries aren’t your favorite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From weeknight desserts to holiday gatherings, these bars shine on any table!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s get started on making these delightful Easy Cherry Pie Bars!

For the Bars

• 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
• 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or ingredients. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Change the Fruit: Swap out cherry filling for blueberry or apple pie filling for a delightful twist.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped almonds or walnuts into the dough for an added crunch.
• Top with Whipped Cream: Serve your bars with a dollop of non-dairy whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Mix in Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for an autumn-inspired flavor.

How to Make Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your bars bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your bars a lovely texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts

Beat in the eggs one at a time along with the almond and vanilla extracts. The extracts not only add flavor but also enhance the overall aroma of your baking.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until everything is well incorporated. This step is vital as it ensures that your bars have just the right structure.

Step 5: Assemble in Baking Pan

Press half of the dough into the bottom of your prepared pan. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over this layer, then dollop spoonfuls of the remaining dough on top. This creates that beautiful marbled effect when baked!

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake in your preheated oven for 35–40 minutes until lightly golden. Once done, let them cool completely in the pan before adding your glaze—it’s hard to resist sneaking a bite during this waiting period!

Step 7: Drizzle with Glaze

Mix together confectioners’ sugar, almond extract, vanilla extract, and enough milk to reach desired consistency. Drizzle this sweet glaze over cooled cherry pie bars before cutting them into squares.

And there you have it! Your Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor are ready to be enjoyed by everyone. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor

Baking can be a delightful adventure, so here are some helpful tips to ensure your cherry pie bars turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with softened butter and eggs at room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and fluffier texture.

• Don’t skip the almond extract: This ingredient adds an unexpected layer of flavor that beautifully complements the cherries. It’s a small addition that makes a big difference!

• Press the dough evenly: When pressing half of the dough into the pan, aim for an even thickness. This ensures your crust bakes uniformly and provides a sturdy base for the cherry filling.

• Let them cool completely: Allowing your bars to cool before cutting helps them set properly and keeps the filling from oozing out. Patience truly pays off here!

• Experiment with different fruit fillings: While cherry is delicious, don’t hesitate to try out other fruit fillings like blueberry or peach if you’re in the mood for something different!

How to Serve Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor

These easy cherry pie bars are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some fun and creative ideas for serving them.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the flavors.

• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream makes a delightful topping that pairs wonderfully with the tartness of the cherries.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a rich contrast to the tart cherries and enhances the overall dessert experience.

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can balance out the sweetness of the bars while adding color and vibrancy to your dessert table.

• Coffee or tea: Serving these bars alongside a cup of coffee or herbal tea creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings at home.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Easy Cherry Pie Bars will not only taste great but also impress everyone at your table. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These easy cherry pie bars are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making them an ideal treat for busy days or gatherings. Here’s how to store and preserve your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep leftover cherry pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer a chilled treat, you can refrigerate them for up to one week.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the bars to cool completely after baking.
• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bags with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy warm bars, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the desired number of bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave a bar on a microwave-safe plate for about 20–30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Easy Cherry Pie Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These easy cherry pie bars store well and can be made a day or two in advance. Just follow the storage tips above for optimal freshness.

What other fruits can I use besides cherries?

While this recipe features cherry filling, you could substitute it with other fruit fillings like blueberry, raspberry, or even peach! Just keep the same measurements to maintain the integrity of the bars.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Easy Cherry Pie Bars?

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough. You could also mix in some crushed nuts or coconut flakes for added texture!

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned filling?

Yes! If you’re using fresh cherries, make sure to pit and chop them before mixing with sugar and cornstarch to create your filling. This will bring a fresh twist to your easy cherry pie bars!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this easy cherry pie bars recipe as delightful as my family does! It’s not just about enjoying a sweet treat; it’s about creating memories around the kitchen and sharing love through food. Whether you’re serving these at a gathering or indulging yourself after a long day, I’m sure they will bring smiles all around. Enjoy making and savoring each bite!