Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that combines the flavors of a traditional cherry pie with the convenience of a bar. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until well combined.
- Assemble the Bars:
- Spread 2/3 of the dough evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the dough layer.
- Drop the remaining dough by spoonfuls over the cherry filling.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract (if using) until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
- Serve:
- Once the glaze has set, cut the bars into squares or rectangles.
- Serve and enjoy your Cherry Pie Bars!
These bars are perfect for any occasion and can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
