Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Dessert You’ll Keep Coming Back For
Skip the hassle of a full pie and enjoy the same incredible flavor with these Easy Cherry Pie Bars! With a buttery crust, juicy cherry filling, and a golden crumbly topping, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a party, picnic, or cozy evening at home, this recipe will be your go-to treat.
Ingredients
For the Crust and Topping:
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (225g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
For the Cherry Filling:
- 2½ cups (350g) fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon almond extract or vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to easily lift the bars out after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust and Topping
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and mix using a pastry cutter, fork, or your hands until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Reserve about ¾ cup of the mixture for the topping.
Step 3: Form the Base
Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool while preparing the cherry filling.
Step 4: Make the Cherry Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the almond or vanilla extract, if desired.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
Spread the cherry filling evenly over the baked crust. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the top.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
Tips for the Perfect Cherry Pie Bars
- Choose the Right Cherries: Fresh cherries provide the best flavor, but frozen cherries work just as well. Be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly.
- Chill the Crust Mixture: If your kitchen is warm, chill the crumb mixture for a few minutes before pressing it into the pan.
- Optional Glaze: For added sweetness, drizzle a simple glaze over the cooled bars made from powdered sugar and milk.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Elegance: All the deliciousness of cherry pie without the extra effort.
- Flavor Explosion: Sweet and tangy cherries pair perfectly with the buttery crust.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday or a casual get-together, these bars are always a hit.
Bake These Cherry Pie Bars Today!
Treat yourself to these sweet and satisfying cherry pie bars. They’re easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and sure to become a favorite in your home. Try this recipe today and let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Happy baking!
