Cherry Pie Bars Recipe

Introduction

Cherry pie bars are the perfect combination of a buttery crust, fruity cherry filling, and a light sweet glaze. Unlike traditional pie, these are baked in a sheet and cut into bars, making them easy to serve at parties, picnics, or just as a delightful family dessert. They are soft, chewy, slightly crunchy on the edges, and bursting with cherry goodness.

Ingredients

For the Crust & Topping:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cherry Filling:

• 1 can (21 oz / 600g) cherry pie filling (or homemade cherry compote – see method below)

For the Glaze (Optional but Recommended):

• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2–3 tbsp milk (or heavy cream)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust & Topping

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add vanilla extract, then mix in flour and salt until crumbly.
4. Press about ⅔ of this mixture evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust.
5. Reserve the remaining ⅓ for the topping.

Step 2: Add the Cherry Filling

1. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the crust layer.

• If using homemade filling: Cook fresh or frozen cherries with ½ cup sugar, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 2 tbsp cornstarch until thick and glossy.

1. Sprinkle the reserved crust mixture evenly over the cherry filling.

Step 3: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
2. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
2. Drizzle glaze over the cooled bars.

Step 5: Cut & Serve

• Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Tips & Variations

• Fruit swap: Try blueberry, raspberry, or apple filling instead of cherry.
• Nutty crunch: Add chopped pecans, almonds, or walnuts into the topping.
• Extra richness: Add a cream cheese swirl to the filling for a cheesecake-cherry combo.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Benefits

• Easy to serve: Unlike traditional pies, these are easy to slice and serve.
• Versatile: Works with many different fruit fillings.
• Make-ahead friendly: Can be baked a day before an event.
• Crowd-pleaser: Sweet, fruity, and buttery – appeals to both kids and adults.

Conclusion

Cherry pie bars are a wonderful alternative to pie – simpler to make, easier to serve, yet just as delicious. The buttery crust pairs perfectly with the tart cherries, and the drizzle of glaze adds just the right touch of sweetness. These bars are perfect for holidays, gatherings, or simply a cozy treat at home.