Cherry Pie Bars

These Cherry Pie Bars are the perfect blend of sweet and tart, making them an ideal dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply indulging yourself, these bars are easy to make and will impress everyone. With a delightful cherry filling nestled between layers of buttery dough, they slice beautifully and look stunning on any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for potlucks, parties, or just a cozy night in; these bars are versatile and crowd-pleasing.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to swap out the cherry filling for your favorite fruit pie filling to suit your taste.
• Deliciously Decadent: The combination of buttery dough and sweet cherries creates a rich dessert that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Serve: Cut into squares for perfect portions that everyone can enjoy without fuss.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Cherry Pie Bars, gather a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 15x10x1-inch baking pan
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is crucial for combining ingredients evenly without making a mess.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and ensures that your butter and sugar become light and fluffy for the best texture in your bars.

Ingredients

These cherry pie bars are tasty and pretty! A homemade dessert that is easy to make and slices up and serves perfectly. Use any pie filling!

For the Dough

• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), softened to room temperature
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling

• 2 (21 ounce) cans cherry pie filling

For the Drizzle

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2-3 Tablespoons milk

How to Make Cherry Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your Cherry Pie Bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together:
1. 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
2. 2 cups sugar
3. 1 teaspoon salt

Beat until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts

Add in:
1. 4 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
2. Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon almond extract.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour

Gradually add:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour, mixing until just combined.

Step 5: Prepare the Baking Pan

Spread:
– Approximately two-thirds of the dough mixture into a greased 15x10x1-inch baking pan.

Step 6: Add Cherry Filling

Spread:
– 2 (21 ounce) cans cherry pie filling evenly over the dough layer.

Step 7: Top with Remaining Dough

Drop remaining dough by teaspoonfuls over the cherry filling, creating small dollops across the top.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about:
– 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Allow cooling completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 9: Prepare Drizzle

In a small bowl, mix:
1. 1 cup powdered sugar
2. 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3. 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
4. Add enough milk (about 2-3 tablespoons) to reach desired consistency; drizzle over cooled bars before serving.

How to Serve Cherry Pie Bars

Cherry pie bars are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their sweet, fruity flavor makes them versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family gathering or a festive celebration.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra creamy texture that complements the cherry filling.

A La Mode

• Serve warm cherry pie bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a comforting and indulgent treat.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Add fresh cherries or berries on top to enhance the presentation and add a refreshing touch to your dessert.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Drizzle melted chocolate over the bars for a rich contrast that pairs beautifully with the sweet cherries.

Coffee Pairing

• Enjoy these bars alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a relaxing afternoon snack.

How to Perfect Cherry Pie Bars

To ensure your cherry pie bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to maintain the tender texture of the bars. Overmixing can lead to tough results.

• Evenly Spread Filling: Make sure the cherry pie filling is spread evenly across the dough for consistent flavor in every bite.

• Cool Completely Before Serving: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps them set properly and makes cutting easier.

• Experiment with Flavors: Try adding other extracts like lemon or coconut for unique twists on traditional cherry flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Pie Bars

Pair your cherry pie bars with these delicious side dishes to create a well-rounded dessert experience.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the tartness of the cherries.
2. Chocolate Mousse: Rich and airy, this dessert complements the sweetness of cherry pie bars beautifully.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can lighten up your dessert table.
4. Cheesecake Bites: These mini bites provide a rich contrast that works well with fruity desserts.
5. Pecan Pie Bars: For those who love nutty flavors, these will add variety to your dessert selection.
6. Coffee Cake: Serve alongside coffee cake for an enjoyable brunch or afternoon treat combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cherry Pie Bars can be fun, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the outcome.

• Skipping the Creaming Step: Failing to cream the butter and sugar well can lead to a dense texture. Make sure to whip until light and fluffy for best results.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold butter or eggs can hinder mixing. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smooth blending.
• Overbaking: Baking for too long can dry out your bars. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven when they’re golden brown.
• Not Cooling Completely: Cutting into warm bars can lead to messy slices. Allow your Cherry Pie Bars to cool completely in the pan before serving.
• Ignoring Consistency of Icing: If your icing is too thick or too runny, it won’t drizzle nicely. Adjust with milk gradually until you reach the desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Cherry Pie Bars

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container, storing for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cherry Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10 minutes for fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat each slice on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering it lightly to retain moisture while heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cherry Pie Bars.

How can I customize my Cherry Pie Bars?

You can experiment with different pie fillings like blueberry or apple. Each option brings its own unique flavor!

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Absolutely! Just make sure you sweeten them appropriately and mix with a thickening agent like cornstarch before layering.

What is the best way to cut my Cherry Pie Bars?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices. This prevents sticking and keeps edges clean.

How do I know when my Cherry Pie Bars are done baking?

Look for a golden brown top and a firm center. You can also insert a toothpick; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for structure.

Final Thoughts

These Cherry Pie Bars are not only visually appealing but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with different fillings or toppings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy delicious homemade treats that everyone will love!