Cherry Pie Bars Recipe: Sweet, Buttery & Perfect for Parties!

Are you dreaming of a dessert that’s as irresistible as it is easy to prepare? Look no further than our Cherry Pie Bars Recipe. These sweet and buttery treats are tailor-made for parties, potlucks, or simple family gatherings. With a delectable cherry filling nestled atop a buttery crust, these bars will quickly become a crowd favorite. Dive into this delightful recipe and treat yourself and your guests to a slice of heaven!

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pie Bars Recipe

The Cherry Pie Bars Recipe is not only simple to make but also offers a taste that’s both nostalgic and refreshing. The buttery crust perfectly complements the sweet, slightly tart cherry filling, creating an irresistible combination that will have everyone reaching for seconds. These bars make an excellent addition to any festive occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic, a holiday feast, or a cozy family dinner.

Another reason to cherish this recipe is its adaptability. Whether you prefer using fresh cherries or a ready-made pie filling, these bars can be tailored to suit your taste and the ingredients you have on hand. Plus, they transport easily, making them the perfect treat for bringing to gatherings and impressing your friends and family.

Context/Background

Cherry desserts have a long-standing history in culinary traditions around the world, often symbolizing summer’s bounty and festive gatherings. The concept of turning a classic pie into bars emerged as a modern twist, offering convenience and ease of serving. These Cherry Pie Bars capture the essence of a traditional pie, yet they can be sliced into handheld pieces, which makes them particularly appealing for on-the-go enjoyment.

Embracing the simplicity and flavors of a standard cherry pie, this recipe reflects a time-honored technique that transforms basic ingredients into a decadent delight, showcasing the timeless appeal of cherries in dessert form.

Recipe Details

Serves: 12

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
4. Combine the flour and salt, then gradually add to the creamed mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
5. Press two-thirds of the dough into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to form the crust.
6. Spread the cherry pie filling over the crust layer, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
7. Drop small spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the cherry filling.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Allow to cool before cutting into bars.

Tips for Perfect Cherry Pie Bars

• Ensure butter is well softened for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
• Allow the pie bars to cool completely before slicing to maintain their shape.
• A splash of almond extract intensifies the flavor, but can be adjusted to taste.
• For a touch of crunch, consider adding a sprinkling of sliced almonds before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Cherry Pie Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an added layer of indulgence. They also pair nicely with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk, making them a versatile treat for any time of day.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover cherry pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. Just be sure they are completely cooled before freezing, and separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Final Thoughts

These Cherry Pie Bars are not only a delightful dessert option but also a testament to the beauty of simple yet delectable baking. Perfect for sharing during any gathering, they offer a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Try this recipe today and discover why it’s a joyful addition to your baking repertoire.

Recipe Notes

• For a fresher taste, consider using homemade cherry pie filling with fresh or frozen cherries.
• Try adding other berries, such as raspberries or blueberries, for a mixed berry bar variation.
• If you prefer a less sweet option, reduce the amount of sugar in the dough by 1/4 cup.