Cherry Pie Bars

Cherry Pie Bars taste like eating Cherry Pie but in brownie form–and they’re so much easier to make! These delightful bars are packed with juicy cherries and a hint of almond flavor, making them perfect for summer gatherings or cozy family desserts. With their wonderful blend of flavors and textures, Cherry Pie Bars are sure to impress at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the pie-making process, allowing you to whip up a delicious dessert without the hassle of crusts.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a picnic, birthday party, or holiday gathering, these bars fit right in.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of fresh cherries and almond extract creates a unique and mouthwatering flavor that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dessert: You can serve these bars warm with ice cream or at room temperature for a delightful treat anytime.
• Great for Meal Prep: Bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week as a sweet snack.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Cherry Pie Bars efficiently, having the right tools can make all the difference. Gather your kitchen essentials before you start baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking pan (9×13 inches)
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: A must-have for combining ingredients easily without spills.
• Baking pan: The right size ensures even cooking and proper texture for your Cherry Pie Bars.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing eggs and sugar smoothly to achieve the right consistency.
• Spatula: Useful for spreading the batter evenly in your baking pan.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 3 cups UNBLEACHED all-purpose flour (bleached flour toughens baked goods)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp. sea salt
• 3 sticks unsalted butter (chilled; 1 1/2 cups)

For the Filling

• 3 cups cherries (pitted, halved)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

For the Batter

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 dash sea salt
• 1 tsp. almond extract
• 3/4 cup UNBLEACHED all-purpose flour (bleached flour toughens baked goods)

How to Make Cherry Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Grease your 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. Unbleached all-purpose flour
2. Granulated sugar
3. Sea salt

Add chilled unsalted butter, cut into cubes, and mix until crumbly. Reserve about 2 cups of this mixture for topping later.

Step 4: Prepare the Cherry Filling

In another bowl, mix pitted cherries with granulated sugar until combined. Set aside.

Step 5: Make the Batter

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together eggs until frothy.
2. Add sour cream, dash of sea salt, and almond extract; mix well.
3. Gradually add reserved flour mixture until smooth.

Step 6: Assemble the Bars

Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan. Evenly distribute cherry filling on top. Pour remaining batter over cherries and sprinkle reserved crumb mixture on top.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center. Let cool before cutting into squares. Enjoy your delicious Cherry Pie Bars!

How to Serve Cherry Pie Bars

Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a sweet snack, here are some creative serving suggestions.

A la Mode

• Serve warm Cherry Pie Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delicious contrast in temperature and flavor.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top your bars with homemade whipped cream for a light and fluffy addition that complements the cherry filling perfectly.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the bars for an indulgent twist that elevates the dessert experience.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh berries or sliced peaches to enhance the fruity flavors and add freshness to each bite.

As a Morning Treat

• Enjoy Cherry Pie Bars as a sweet breakfast treat paired with coffee or tea for a delightful start to your day.

How to Perfect Cherry Pie Bars

To ensure your Cherry Pie Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh cherries: Fresh cherries give the best flavor and texture. Make sure to pit and halve them before adding to the batter.

• Chill the butter: Chilled butter helps create a flaky crust that holds its shape well during baking.

• Don’t overmix: Mixing too much can lead to tough bars. Mix just until combined for the best texture.

• Check for doneness: Bake until golden brown and set in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

• Let them cool: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them hold their shape better.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Pie Bars

Cherry Pie Bars pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their sweet flavor. Here are some options to consider.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing adds creaminess and balances the tartness of the cherries.
2. Fresh Berries Salad: A mix of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt offers creaminess while keeping things light.
4. Lemon Sorbet: The zesty lemon sorbet cleanses the palate and adds a bright flavor profile.
5. Pecan Crumble Topping: Sprinkle some toasted pecans on top of your bars for added crunch and nuttiness.
6. Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel sauce adds richness and pairs well with cherry flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cherry Pie Bars can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your dessert. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using Bleached Flour: This type of flour toughens baked goods. Always opt for unbleached all-purpose flour for a softer texture.
• Skipping Cherry Preparation: Make sure to pit and halve the cherries properly. Leaving pits can spoil the texture and taste of your bars.
• Overmixing Batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bars. Mix until just combined for a lighter, fluffier result.
• Ignoring Temperature: Chilled butter is essential for proper dough consistency. Ensure your butter is cold before mixing it into the dough.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use appropriate measuring tools to ensure you get the right amounts for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Consume within 5-7 days for the best flavor.

Freezing Cherry Pie Bars

• Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing taste.

Reheating Cherry Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds until warm, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a non-stick skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cherry Pie Bars, along with their answers.

How can I customize my Cherry Pie Bars?

You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor, or mix in other fruits such as blueberries or raspberries.

Can I use frozen cherries for Cherry Pie Bars?

Yes! Frozen cherries work well. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.

Are Cherry Pie Bars suitable for summer gatherings?

Absolutely! These bars are refreshing and perfect for summer parties, picnics, or barbecues.

What can I serve with Cherry Pie Bars?

Consider serving them with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to enhance their deliciousness.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Pie Bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Their delightful blend of flavors makes them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them according to your taste preferences, and enjoy every bite!