Cherry Pie Bars

Introduction to Cherry Pie Bars Recipe

Cherry pie bars bring the delightful flavors of a classic cherry pie into a simple, handheld treat that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re planning a family gathering, a friendly potluck, or just a sweet end to a weekday meal, these bars offer all the charm of homemade pie with a fraction of the effort. The combination of a buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and a delicate almond-flavored drizzle creates a delicious harmony that’s bound to impress.

This recipe simplifies the pie-making process without sacrificing any of the taste. By transforming the traditional pie into bars, it offers a convenient way to serve and enjoy the luscious taste of cherries. The use of common ingredients like butter, sugar, and flour ensures that anyone can make these at home without needing to hunt for specialty items. Additionally, the recipe is flexible enough to allow for adjustments, such as using a different fruit filling or modifying the glaze to suit dietary needs or personal taste preferences.

What sets these cherry pie bars apart is their perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crust is soft yet sturdy, providing a satisfying contrast to the rich, gooey cherry filling. The final touch, a light drizzle of almond-infused glaze, adds just the right amount of sweetness and enhances the overall almond flavor that pairs so well with cherries. Follow the steps below to create these delightful treats that are sure to become a new favorite.

Cherry Pie Bars Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt or table salt
• 21 ounces cherry pie filling (1 can)
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla extract)
• 1 tablespoon milk or cream

Instructions:

1. Preparation: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Making the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts until well combined. Gradually add in the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
3. Assembling the Bars: Press approximately two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Spread the cherry pie filling over the dough. Drop small spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the cherry filling, leaving some filling exposed for a rustic look.
4. Baking: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the filling is bubbly. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
5. Glazing: Whisk together the powdered sugar, almond (or vanilla) extract, and milk to create a smooth glaze. Adjust the consistency with additional milk or powdered sugar if necessary. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
6. Serving: Refrigerate the bars for about 10 minutes to set the glaze before cutting into 16 pieces. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 16 bars

With these cherry pie bars, you can easily bring a touch of gourmet baking into your home with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. They make a delightful treat that combines the ease of a bar with the classic appeal of cherry pie. Enjoy crafting this sweet, satisfying dessert that promises to be as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.

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