Cherry Pie Bars are the perfect solution when you’re craving the flavors of a traditional cherry pie but want something easier to make. These bars combine the buttery, flaky crust of a pie with the sweet and tangy taste of cherry filling, all in a convenient bar form. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a party, or just want a quick dessert, these bars are sure to be a hit.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these delicious cherry pie bars, explore variations for different tastes and dietary needs, and provide tips on presentation and storage. We’ll also include some complementary recipes to pair with your bars, making this dessert the star of any occasion.
Why You’ll Love Cherry Pie Bars
These Cherry Pie Bars deliver all the flavors of a classic cherry pie in a fraction of the time. The recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require the same level of precision as a traditional pie, making it an excellent option for bakers of all skill levels. Plus, these bars are portable and easy to serve, making them perfect for potlucks, picnics, and parties.
If you’re a fan of easy, fruit-based desserts like our Crescent Roll Apple Dumplings, you’ll love the simplicity and flavor of these bars.
Key Ingredients for Cherry Pie Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to make Cherry Pie Bars:
- Cherry Pie Filling: You can use homemade or store-bought cherry pie filling to save time. If you’re making your own, fresh or frozen cherries work well.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is used to create a rich, flaky crust.
- Flour: All-purpose flour is the base for the crust and topping, giving the bars their structure.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens both the crust and the filling.
- Eggs: Eggs help bind the crust and create a soft, tender texture.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor.
- Baking Powder: This helps the crust and topping rise slightly, creating a soft yet crisp texture.
For a similar sweet and fruity experience, try our Peach Glazed Raspberry Cream Cheese Pie, which also highlights fruit-forward flavors in a decadent dessert.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Cherry Pie Bars
Follow these simple steps to make Cherry Pie Bars:
1. Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups of sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in 4 large eggs, one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Gradually add 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Assemble the Bars
- Press about 2/3 of the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming an even layer.
- Spread 1 can (or about 2 cups) of cherry pie filling over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the cherry filling, covering as much of the surface as possible. Don’t worry if some of the cherries peek through.
3. Bake the Bars
- Bake the cherry pie bars in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting.
4. Serve and Enjoy
- Once cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles and serve. These bars can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or even chilled.
Variations of Cherry Pie Bars
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are a few variations to try:
Gluten-Free Cherry Pie Bars
To make these bars gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your baking powder and cherry pie filling are also gluten-free.
Vegan Cherry Pie Bars
For a vegan version, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg). Make sure the cherry pie filling is free of animal products.
Lemon Cherry Pie Bars
For a citrusy twist, add the zest of one lemon to the dough and a few tablespoons of lemon juice to the cherry filling. The bright lemon flavor complements the sweetness of the cherries beautifully.
Looking for another dessert with a fruit twist? Try our Strawberry Cheesecake for a creamy, indulgent treat that pairs well with fresh fruit.
Tips for Perfect Cherry Pie Bars
Here are some helpful tips to make sure your Cherry Pie Bars turn out perfectly every time:
- Use Fresh or Frozen Cherries: If you want to make your own cherry filling, you can use fresh or frozen cherries. Simply cook them down with sugar and a bit of cornstarch to thicken.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the bars as they bake. You want the top to be golden brown, but be careful not to overbake, as this can make the crust too hard.
- Cool Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to cut clean slices.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
Presentation can make your cherry pie bars look as good as they taste. Here are a few serving ideas:
- Serve with Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can take these bars to the next level.
- Garnish with Fresh Cherries: For a decorative touch, add a few fresh cherries on top of each bar before serving.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweet finish and makes the bars look beautiful.
For a full dessert spread, consider serving these cherry pie bars alongside our Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie for a classic combination of flavors and textures.
Storing and Leftovers
These bars store well and can be made ahead of time. Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate: If you want to keep them longer, store the bars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Cherry pie bars can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Other Fruit Fillings?
Yes! While cherry pie filling is traditional, you can easily substitute with other fruit fillings like blueberry, apple, or peach.
How Long Do Cherry Pie Bars Last?
Stored in the refrigerator, these bars will last up to 5 days. If frozen, they can be stored for up to 3 months.
Can I Make These Bars Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the bars a day or two ahead and store them at room temperature or in the refrigerator. They taste great when made in advance!
Conclusion
Cherry Pie Bars are an easy, delicious dessert that combines the flavors of a classic cherry pie with the convenience of a bar. With their buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and crumbly topping, they’re sure to become a favorite at any gathering. For more delicious dessert options, pair these bars with our Buttermilk Chocolate Cake for a sweet and satisfying spread!