If you’re a fan of traditional cherry pie but looking for an easier and more convenient option, you’re going to love Cherry Pie Bars. This dessert is everything you enjoy about a classic cherry pie but in bar form—perfect for sharing, packing for picnics, or serving at family gatherings.
What Are Cherry Pie Bars?
Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful dessert that takes the best parts of a traditional cherry pie and transforms them into easy-to-eat bars. They consist of a buttery crust, a sweet and tart cherry filling, and a golden crumbly topping. They’re often made in a large baking pan, cut into squares, and served as handheld treats.
Unlike a traditional pie, Cherry Pie Bars are quicker to assemble and don’t require any fancy pie crust techniques. In addition, they are ideal for serving a large group.
Ingredients for Cherry Pie Bars
Making Cherry Pie Bars requires just a handful of simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s a basic list to get you started:
- Butter: It enhances the richness and contributes to a soft, tender crust.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust and filling.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the crust and topping.
- Eggs: Provide structure to the bars.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the crust.
- Cherry pie filling: You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own from scratch.
- Optional Additions: Almond extract or lemon zest for a zesty twist.
Variations and Substitutions:
- If you’re looking to experiment, you can swap the cherry filling with other fruit fillings like blueberry or apple for a new twist on these classic bars.
- For an extra layer of flavor, add a teaspoon of almond extract to the crust and topping mixture.
How to Make Cherry Pie Bars – Step by Step
Let’s break down the process into easy-to-follow steps to ensure that your Cherry Pie Bars turn out perfect every time.
Preparation (15 minutes)
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Make the crust and topping: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then gently stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour until the mixture is well combined.
- Press the crust: Take two-thirds of the dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer. Set aside the remaining dough for the topping.
Assembly (10 minutes)
- Spread the cherry pie filling: Evenly spread the cherry pie filling over the crust. You can use canned cherry pie filling or make your own using fresh cherries.
- Crumble the topping: Take the reserved dough and crumble it over the top of the cherry filling, leaving small gaps for the filling to peek through.
Baking and Cooling (40-45 minutes)
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly.
- Cool completely: Allow the Cherry Pie Bars to cool in the pan before slicing them into bars. This step is essential for ensuring clean, neat cuts.
Pro Tip:
To make slicing easier, chill the bars in the fridge for about 30 minutes after they’ve cooled to room temperature. This will help the filling firm up and prevent it from oozing out when you cut the bars.
Tips for Perfect Cherry Pie Bars
Even though these bars are relatively simple to make, a few tips can take them from good to great:
- Don’t overbake: Monitor the bars carefully while they bake, as leaving them in the oven too long can result in a dry crust.
- Use parchment paper: Lining the baking pan with parchment paper makes it easy to lift the entire batch of bars out of the pan for cutting.
- Let them cool completely: Resist the temptation to cut into the bars while they’re still warm. They need time to set, which ensures clean, even slices.
Variations of Cherry Pie Bars
One of the best things about Cherry Pie Bars is how easily they can be customized. Whether you want to tweak the flavor or make the recipe your own, here are a few popular variations you can try:
1. Add a Citrus Twist
- For a refreshing hint of citrus, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the crust mixture. The citrus flavor balances the sweetness of the cherry filling, giving the bars a bright, tangy kick.
2. Switch Up the Fruit
- Although cherries are the star of the show, you can use other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches for a different flavor profile. Simply substitute the cherry pie filling with your preferred fruit filling.
3. Almond Flavor
- Add almond extract to the crust or topping for a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries. You can even sprinkle slivered almonds on top before baking for added crunch.
4. Chocolate Drizzle
- For an indulgent treat, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars. The combination of chocolate and cherries is irresistible.
How to Store and Make Cherry Pie Bars Ahead of Time
Cherry Pie Bars are not only delicious but also easy to store and make ahead. Here’s how you can keep them fresh:
Storing at Room Temperature
- If you’re planning to eat the bars within 1-2 days, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps the crust crisp and the filling flavorful.
Refrigerating
- For longer storage, place the bars in the refrigerator where they will last up to 5 days. Be sure to use an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezing
- Cherry Pie Bars freeze well, making them perfect for prepping ahead of time. To freeze, place the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once they’re firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Thawing and Serving
- When ready to eat, thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter for a few hours. They’re just as delicious as when freshly baked!
Serving Suggestions for Cherry Pie Bars
Cherry Pie Bars are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to suit the occasion. Here are a few ideas:
1. With Ice Cream
- Serve the bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing. The cold, creamy ice cream complements the warm, gooey cherry filling perfectly.
2. Whipped Cream Topping
- Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each bar for a light and airy touch. This is a great option for those who prefer something less rich than ice cream.
3. Dessert Platters
- If you’re serving a crowd, arrange the bars on a large dessert platter with other treats like brownies, cookies, and fruit for a visually appealing dessert buffet.
FAQs
What can I add to canned cherry pie filling to make it better?
To elevate canned cherry pie filling, you can add a variety of flavor enhancers. For example, check out this guide on enhancing canned pie fillings with almond extract, vanilla, or even fresh cherries for a more homemade touch. You can also mix in lemon zest for a citrusy balance to the sweetness.
What is the difference between Comstock and Wilderness cherry pie filling?
When choosing between Comstock vs. Wilderness Cherry Pie Filling, it’s helpful to know the differences. Comstock offers a sweeter, smoother consistency, while Wilderness is more tart and contains whole cherries. Learn more about choosing the best cherry pie filling for your recipe.
How do you keep cherry pies from falling apart?
To avoid your cherry pie bars from crumbling, discover pro tips on keeping cherry pies intact. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting, and consider thickening the filling with cornstarch or flour to help them hold together well.
How do you make a cherry pie not runny?
Preventing a runny cherry pie or bars is key to a perfect dessert. Explore methods for thickening cherry pie filling by using cornstarch, flour, or instant tapioca. Draining excess liquid from cherries, whether canned or frozen, also helps keep the filling firm.
Conclusion
Cherry Pie Bars are a delicious, crowd-pleasing dessert that brings all the flavors of a traditional cherry pie into a portable, easy-to-make treat. With a buttery crust, tart cherry filling, and endless customization options, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday dessert table or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee, these bars are sure to be a hit.
Don’t forget to experiment with the variations, try different serving ideas, and make use of the helpful tips in this guide. Now that you know how to create the perfect Cherry Pie Bars, it’s time to head to the kitchen and start baking!