Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings everyone together, you’ve come to the right place. These Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive family gatherings. I still remember the smell of these bars baking in my grandmother’s kitchen, filling our home with warmth and sweetness. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe whenever I need a quick treat or something special to share.

The best part? They’re loved by kids and adults alike! With their sweet cherry filling and buttery crust, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home too. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a potluck with friends, these cherry pie bars are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 50 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet cherries and almond extract creates a flavor profile that is simply irresistible.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves these cherry pie bars! They’re perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these bars ahead of time and store them for later, making them perfect for gatherings.
• Versatile Treat: These bars are great on their own or served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—yum!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these easy cherry pie bars, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; most of them are likely already in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these ideas:

• Add Some Spice: Consider adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for an extra layer of flavor.
• Change the Fruit: Swap out the cherry filling for blueberry, raspberry, or even mixed berry fillings for a different twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Stir in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the dough for added texture.
• Top It Off: Sprinkle some shredded coconut on top before baking for a tropical touch!

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 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 step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your bars a lovely texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts

Next, add in your eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Mixing these ingredients well will enhance the overall flavor profile of your cherry pie bars.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually mix this into your wet ingredients until well combined. The dough will be thick but should come together nicely.

Step 5: Press Dough into Pan

Take half of the dough and press it into an even layer at the bottom of a greased baking pan. This will serve as your base!

Step 6: Add Cherry Filling

Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the pressed dough. Be generous here—the cherries add so much flavor!

Step 7: Top with Remaining Dough

Dollop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the cherry filling. This doesn’t have to be perfect; it will create a beautiful topping as it bakes.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 35–40 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on it—you want that lovely crust!

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

Once baked, allow your bars to cool completely before drizzling with glaze made from confectioners’ sugar, almond extract, vanilla, and milk. This sweet finishing touch takes them over the top!

Now you have a batch of Easy Cherry Pie Bars ready to share (or keep all to yourself). Enjoy every bite!

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

Baking these delicious cherry pie bars is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with eggs and butter at room temperature helps create a smooth batter, leading to a more tender and evenly baked bar.

• Don’t skimp on the almond extract: Adding the right amount of almond extract enhances the flavor profile, making your cherry pie bars taste more gourmet without much extra effort.

• Spread the filling evenly: For a uniform texture and taste, take your time spreading the cherry filling. This ensures every bite has that delightful cherry goodness you’re craving.

• Check for doneness carefully: Oven temperatures can vary. Keep an eye on the edges of the bars; they should be golden brown when done. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.

• Let them cool completely before cutting: Patience is key! Allowing your bars to cool fully will make it easier to cut them into neat squares without them falling apart.

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

These easy cherry pie bars are not only tasty but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some fun ideas to present this delightful dessert beautifully!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness, making each bar look like a piece of art.

• Fresh cherries: Placing a few fresh cherries on top as a garnish not only enhances presentation but also reinforces that delicious cherry flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture and sweet vanilla flavor pairs wonderfully with the tartness of the cherry pie bars, creating a classic dessert combination.

• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream provides a light and airy topping that complements the richness of the bars.

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cherry pie bars perfectly.

• Coffee or tea: Serve these bars alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for an inviting afternoon treat, perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying some quiet time.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll be ready to impress with your Easy Cherry Pie Bars! Enjoy every bite as you savor this delightful treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

These easy cherry pie bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store them properly, and enjoy the deliciousness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cherry pie bars to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into squares and allow them to cool completely.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your container!

Reheating

• To reheat, remove desired pieces from the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual bars for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Enjoy them warm with a scoop of your favorite non-dairy ice cream for an extra treat!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned filling for these Easy Cherry Pie Bars?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be used; just pit and slice them. Combine with sugar and cornstarch to create a filling similar to canned cherry pie filling.

How do I make these Easy Cherry Pie Bars gluten-free?

You can easily substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your blend is suitable for baking, and follow the same measurements.

What’s the best way to serve Easy Cherry Pie Bars?

These bars are delightful on their own but can be served with a drizzle of glaze or a dollop of whipped coconut cream for added flavor. They also pair wonderfully with coffee or tea!

Can I add other fruits to my Easy Cherry Pie Bars?

Yes! Feel free to mix in other berries like blueberries or raspberries alongside the cherries. Just make sure not to overwhelm the filling with too much fruit.

How long will these Easy Cherry Pie Bars last?

When stored properly, they can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge. If frozen, they’ll stay fresh for about 3 months.

Final Thoughts

I hope this easy cherry pie bars recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it has to mine over the years! With its delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, it’s guaranteed to become a cherished favorite in your family too. Don’t hesitate to try making this simple cherry dessert; it’s perfect for any occasion or just a cozy night at home. Happy baking!