Cherry Pie Bars

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Absolutely! Here is your BIG, delicious, fully detailed recipe for Cherry Pie Bars — full of love, flavor, history, and irresistible charm.

Cherry Pie Bars – Sweet, Tangy, and Irresistibly Delicious

Introduction

Cherry pie is a classic symbol of comfort, Americana, and indulgence. But what if we told you that you could enjoy that same sweet, tangy goodness in a hand-held, bar form? Enter: Cherry Pie Bars — a luscious dessert that combines the buttery, rich texture of shortbread with the vibrant burst of cherries and a light glaze on top.

Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, tea time, or a quiet moment of self-love, these bars are a modern twist on a nostalgic treat. Simple to make, easier to serve, and just as satisfying as a slice of pie.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened, about 226 g)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar (400 g)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (360 g)
  • 1 tsp salt

For the Filling:

  • 1 can cherry pie filling (approximately 540 g or 21 oz)
    • OR make your own with:
      • 2 cups pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
      • 1/3 cup sugar
      • 1 tbsp cornstarch
      • 1 tsp lemon juice

For the Glaze (optional but heavenly):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1–2 tbsp milk or heavy cream
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or stand mixer
  • 9×13-inch baking pan
  • Spatula
  • Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes). Add vanilla extract and beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.

2. Assemble the Base

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Spread 2/3 of the dough evenly across the bottom of the pan. Use an offset spatula or damp fingers to press it down smoothly.

3. Add the Cherry Filling

If using canned filling, spoon it evenly over the dough base.
If making homemade: combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until thick and glossy (about 5–8 minutes). Cool slightly, then spread over the dough.

4. Top with Remaining Dough

Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough randomly over the cherry layer. Don’t worry about covering every inch — the cherries should peek through!

5. Bake to Perfection

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and set. Remove and allow to cool in the pan on a wire rack.

6. Drizzle the Glaze

Once the bars have cooled completely, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk/cream until smooth. Drizzle generously over the top. Let set before slicing.

A Bite of History

The cherry pie has roots in early European baking, particularly in England and France, but gained its true fame in America, becoming a patriotic symbol (“as American as cherry pie”). These bars are a contemporary evolution — easier to share, store, and prepare, while still honoring that classic sweet-tart profile.

Cherry pie bars represent not just dessert but the warmth of tradition, the ease of modern baking, and the joy of sharing.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

  • For lovers of tang: Add a bit of lemon zest to the glaze for a citrusy contrast.
  • For nut lovers: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pecans into the dough or on top.
  • For chocolate fans: Drizzle melted white chocolate instead of glaze.
  • For romance: Serve warm bars with vanilla ice cream and a cherry on top. Perfect for date nights or special occasions.

Tips from Cherry Lovers

  • Don’t overbake: bars continue to set as they cool.
  • Use high-quality cherry filling or homemade for the best flavor.
  • Want a rustic look? Leave the glaze off and sprinkle with powdered sugar instead.
  • Store bars in an airtight container — they stay delicious for 3–4 days.

Conclusion – A Love Letter to Cherry Pie Bars

In a world full of desserts, Cherry Pie Bars are a love song. They sing of buttery richness, bright fruitiness, and the joy of simplicity. They’re the dessert you bring to comfort a friend, to charm a lover, or to reward yourself after a long day.

Not just a recipe — it’s a moment, a memory, a mouthful of happiness.

Would you like a visual version, a printable PDF, or maybe even a customized recipe with other fruits like blueberries, apples, or peaches? I can tailor it for you!

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