Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor

Cherry desserts hold a special place in my heart, especially this Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor recipe that’s been a family favorite for years. My grandmother first shared it with me during summer holidays when cherries were in season. It’s simple to make, yet bursting with sweet and tart flavors enhanced by a hint of almond extract—a secret twist that makes these bars irresistible. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student craving a quick treat, or a baking enthusiast looking for a new classic, this homemade cherry pie bars recipe is your go-to. Plus, if you love discovering new recipes, be sure to browse our Pinterest boards where we share plenty of sweet and simple recipes, including an entire collection dedicated to cherry delights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy days.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet cherry filling and almond extract creates an unforgettable taste.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for dessert tables, picnics, or as a delightful snack any time of the day.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these cherry pie bars; they are great for gatherings!
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be made in advance and stored for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here are some must-have items for preparing easy cherry pie bars.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all your ingredients easily without any mess.
• Electric mixer: An electric mixer speeds up the creaming process, ensuring that your butter and sugar blend perfectly.
• Baking pan: The right size baking pan ensures even baking and helps achieve the perfect texture for your bars.

Ingredients

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

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine softened butter and sugar.
2. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts

Add the eggs one at a time while continuing to mix. Then incorporate the almond extract and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Mix in Flour and Salt

Gradually add in the flour and salt:
1. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
2. Reserve half of this dough for topping.

Step 5: Assemble in Baking Pan

1. Press half of the dough into the bottom of a greased baking pan evenly.
2. Spread the cherry pie filling over the dough layer.
3. Dollop spoonfuls of the remaining dough on top of the filling.

Step 6: Bake

Place in preheated oven:
1. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until golden brown around the edges.
2. Remove from oven and allow cooling completely on a cooling rack.

Step 7: Drizzle Glaze

For the glaze:
1. In a small bowl, mix confectioners’ sugar, almond extract, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
2. Drizzle over cooled bars before cutting into squares to serve.

Enjoy these easy cherry pie bars as a delightful treat anytime!

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

These easy cherry pie bars are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to make your cherry dessert even more enjoyable.

Serve Warm with Ice Cream

• Top each bar with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a warm and cold contrast that brings out the cherry flavors beautifully.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• Add a rich chocolate sauce over the bars for a decadent twist. The combination of chocolate and cherries will surely impress your guests.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Serve the pie bars alongside fresh raspberries or blueberries. The bright colors and flavors will elevate the dessert’s appeal.

Garnish with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a light and airy texture, making your cherry pie bars feel extra special.

Accompany with a Cup of Coffee

• Pair your dessert with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the drink complements the sweet tartness of the cherry bars perfectly.

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

To make these easy cherry pie bars even better, consider these helpful tips that ensure perfect results every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose premium cherry pie filling for the best flavor in your bars.
• Chill Your Dough: Refrigerate your dough for 30 minutes before baking to help it hold its shape during cooking.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the oven; removing the bars when they’re golden ensures they remain soft and chewy.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add lemon juice or zest for an extra zing that pairs well with cherries.
• Cut Evenly: Use a sharp knife to cut into even squares once cooled, ensuring each serving looks perfect.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor

While these easy cherry pie bars are delightful on their own, pairing them with side dishes can create a complete dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic choice, vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm cherry pie bars, enhancing their sweetness.

2. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light balance and adds color to your dessert table.

3. Cheesecake Bites
   Mini cheesecake bites offer creaminess that contrasts nicely with the tartness of the cherry filling.

4. Pecan Sandies
   These buttery cookies add crunch and richness, making them an excellent companion to soft cherry pie bars.

5. Coconut Macaroons
   Chewy coconut macaroons bring tropical flair and sweetness that pairs well with cherries.

6. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
   Sweet strawberries dipped in chocolate create an elegant touch that complements any dessert spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Cherry Pie Bars, a few common mistakes can affect the final outcome. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can hinder the mixing process. Always use softened butter and room-temperature eggs for a smooth batter.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Too much flour can make the bars dry. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour accurately.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Cutting the bars too soon may lead to a messy presentation. Allow them to cool completely before slicing.
• Overbaking: Baking for too long can result in dry bars. Keep an eye on them and start checking at 30 minutes.
• Ignoring Glaze Consistency: A glaze that’s too thick won’t drizzle properly. Add milk gradually until you achieve a pourable consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Easy Cherry Pie Bars in an airtight container.
• They will remain fresh for up to 5 days when refrigerated.

Freezing Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Easy Cherry Pie Bars: A Simple Cherry Dessert to Savor

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 10 minutes for best texture.
• Microwave: Heat bars on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm. Be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about Easy Cherry Pie Bars, here are some common questions:

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?

Yes! If using fresh cherries, cook them down with some sugar and cornstarch until thickened before spreading on the crust.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Easy Cherry Pie Bars?

Adding extra almond extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! These bars work well with blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches—just adjust the sweetness based on the fruit used.

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

The edges should be golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Cherry Pie Bars are not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile. They can be customized with different fruits or flavored extracts, making them perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try this delightful recipe and share it with friends and family!