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Cherry pie bars on baking tray with fresh ingredients

Cherry Pie Bars

Cherry pie bars are a quick, nostalgic dessert that captures all the sweet, tangy flavor of traditional cherry pie in a simpler, shareable form. With a soft, buttery base, luscious cherry filling, and crumbly topping, these bars are perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you crave an easy homemade treat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough (Base and Crumble Topping)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 eggs large
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp almond extract optional, but enhances flavor
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
For the Filling
  • 1 can 21 oz cherry pie filling store-bought or homemade
Optional Glaze
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1-2 tbsp milk as needed for consistency
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
  3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and almond extract (if using).
  4. Gradually mix in flour and salt until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Set aside about 1/3 of the dough for the crumble topping. Press the remaining dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  6. Spoon cherry pie filling evenly over the dough base, spreading gently to cover the surface.
  7. Crumble the reserved dough over the top of the cherry filling.
  8. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and edges are set.
  9. Allow bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
  10. Optional: Mix glaze ingredients (powdered sugar, milk, vanilla) and drizzle over cooled bars before serving.

Notes

For variations, try adding a cream cheese layer for cherry cheesecake bars, swap to gluten-free flour for dietary needs, or mix in almonds for added texture and flavor. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.