Cherry Pie Bars

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<p>There's something nostalgic about cherry pie, isn't there? It evokes memories of summer picnics and family gatherings. When I was younger, my grandmother used to make the kind of cherry pie that made us all long for seconds before we'd even started dessert. I’ve taken that love for cherries and transformed it into these Cherry Pie Bars—same delicious flavor, but easier to share, perfect for potlucks or an afternoon treat with friends. They’re like a slice of summer captured in a golden, buttery bar.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Reasons to try it</h2>
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<p>Why should you reach for this recipe tonight? Well, first off, the texture is superb. You have that tart, juicy cherry filling nestled between two layers of soft, buttery cake that gives it a delightful contrast. The flavor, oh, let’s not forget that! You have the familiar sweetness of cherries paired with hints of almond and vanilla that makes each bite sing. Just imagine serving these at a gathering—the aroma wafting through the space, pulling everyone in towards the dessert table like moths to a flame.</p>

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<p>Another reason I cherish these bars? The ease. Unlike traditional pies that can be fussy and require crimping and endless re-chilling, these bars come together quickly. It’s a no-fuss dessert that respects your time without skimping on flavor. And they store beautifully, so a batch can carry you through the week or bring joy to any spontaneous gathering. Honestly, once you try them, you’ll see why they keep finding their way back into our recipe rotation.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Gather these ingredients</h2>
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<p>Before you start baking, let’s ensure you have everything on hand:</p>
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<li><strong>1 cup unsalted butter</strong>: It’s important to use unsalted here so that you can control the salinity of the bars.</li>
<li><strong>2 cups granulated sugar</strong>: A combination of sweetness that helps balance those tart cherries.</li>
<li><strong>4 large eggs</strong>: They add structure and moisture to the cake part of the bars.</li>
<li><strong>1 teaspoon vanilla extract</strong>: A staple that elevates the overall flavor—don’t skip it!</li>
<li><strong>¼ teaspoon almond extract</strong>: This is what brings a lovely depth to the bars, perfectly complementing the cherries.</li>
<li><strong>3 cups all-purpose flour</strong>: The backbone of your batter—this is where the magic happens.</li>
<li><strong>1 teaspoon salt</strong>: A pinch helps to balance all the sweet flavors.</li>
<li><strong>2 (21-ounce) cans cherry pie filling</strong>: Convenience at its finest; these cans save you time without skimping on flavor.</li>
<li><strong>1 cup powdered sugar</strong>: We’ll turn this into a simple drizzle for that final touch.</li>
<li><strong>½ teaspoon vanilla extract & ½ teaspoon almond extract</strong>: For the glaze, echoing those beautiful flavors from the bars.</li>
<li><strong>2 tablespoons milk</strong>: Just to help thin out that glaze for drizzling.</li>
</ul>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How this recipe comes together</h2>
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<p>Let’s roll up our sleeves and do some baking. Here’s how to turn these ingredients into those inviting Cherry Pie Bars:</p>
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<li><p>Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grab a 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking pan and spray it with pan spray. No one likes sticky bars, trust me.</p></li>
<li><p>In a bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step traps air into the butter, making your bars lovely and soft.</p></li>
<li><p>Add in the eggs one at a time, making sure they’re well incorporated after each addition. This is where the magic begins, creating a rich batter.</p></li>
<li><p>Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts. Such an inviting aroma, isn’t it?</p></li>
<li><p>In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt, then gradually add this to the creamed mixture. Combine until just mixed—don’t overdo it, or your bars might turn out dense.</p></li>
<li><p>Spread about three cups of the batter evenly across the bottom of your prepared pan. Use a spatula to make sure it’s nice and smooth.</p></li>
<li><p>Open the cherry pie filling and pour it over the batter. Spread it out gently. The joy is in watching those glossy cherries bloom in the center.</p></li>
<li><p>Drop dollops of the remaining batter over the cherry filling. It doesn’t have to look perfect; the uneven dropping will create lovely swirls.</p></li>
<li><p>Bake it in the oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean and the top is lightly golden brown. If you're using a larger 15 x 10-inch pan, check around 30 minutes for doneness.</p></li>
<li><p>Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Patience is key here—the cooling helps them set up nicely.</p></li>
<li><p>While they cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon each of vanilla and almond extracts, and the milk to make a drizzle. Once the bars are cool, give them a nice drizzle across the top.</p></li>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Best way to enjoy it</h2>
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<p>So, how do you serve these Cherry Pie Bars? They’re delightful on their own, but I like to pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a truly indulgent experience. A sprinkle of chopped nuts adds a lovely crunch and contrast to the soft bars. You could even dust them with some powdered sugar if you want that café vibe at home. Pair with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea and you’re set for a cozy afternoon.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Storage and reheating tips</h2>
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<p>If you manage to have any leftovers (no judgment here if you don't), storing these bars is pretty straightforward. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will last about a week. They do taste even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. If you want to freeze them, cut them into bars and layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container; they’ll last up to a month. Just ensure they’re completely cooled before freezing to maintain texture.</p>

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<p>When it comes time to enjoy, no need to thaw them fully; you can pop one in the microwave for a quick few seconds for a warm treat or enjoy them cold, as they’re equally delightful.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tips for a successful recipe</h2>
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<p>Here are a few insider tips to ensure your Cherry Pie Bars turn out wonderfully:</p>
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<li>Be cautious not to overmix the batter once you add the flour. This can lead to a tougher texture.</li>
<li>Make sure your butter is just softened, not melted—this brings the right texture to the batter.</li>
<li>If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, aromatic twist.</li>
<li>Don't skip the almond extract; it truly complements the cherries beautifully—and it’s only a smidgen!</li>
<li>If you're using homemade cherry filling, be sure to adjust sweetness as necessary; it should enhance, not overpower.</li>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Creative twists</h2>
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<p>Want to make these bars your own? Here are some creative twists worth trying:</p>
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<li><strong>Berry Medley</strong>: Substitute some or all of the cherry filling with a mix of blueberries and raspberries for a berry explosion.</li>
<li><strong>Chocolate Drizzle</strong>: Swap the glaze with melted dark chocolate for a decadent twist that pleases the chocolate lovers in your life.</li>
<li><strong>Oatmeal Crumble</strong>: Add a crumb topping made of oats and brown sugar before baking for an added crunch and texture.</li>
</ul>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ingredients</h2>
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<li>1 cup unsalted butter (softened)</li>
<li>2 cups granulated sugar</li>
<li>4 large eggs</li>
<li>1 teaspoon vanilla extract</li>
<li>¼ teaspoon almond extract</li>
<li>3 cups all-purpose flour</li>
<li>1 teaspoon salt</li>
<li>2 (21-ounce) cans cherry pie filling</li>
<li>1 cup powdered sugar</li>
<li>½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)</li>
<li>½ teaspoon almond extract (for glaze)</li>
<li>2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)</li>
</ul>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Directions to follow</h2>
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<li>Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking pan.</li>
<li>Cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.</li>
<li>Add eggs, one at a time, beating well. Then mix in vanilla and almond extracts.</li>
<li>In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add to creamed mixture until just combined.</li>
<li>Spread about 3 cups of batter in the bottom of the pan evenly.</li>
<li>Pour cherry pie filling over the batter and spread evenly.</li>
<li>Drop spoonfuls of remaining batter over the cherries.</li>
<li>Bake for 35-40 minutes; check for doneness with a toothpick.</li>
<li>Cool completely in the pan.</li>
<li>Whisk together glaze ingredients and drizzle over cooled bars.</li>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Your questions answered</h2>
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<li><strong>Can I use fresh cherries?</strong> Absolutely! If using fresh, be sure to sweeten them to balance the tartness.</li>
<li><strong>What can I substitute for the almond extract?</strong> You can skip it entirely or use additional vanilla in its place if you prefer.</li>
<li><strong>Can I make these gluten-free?</strong> Yes, just swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.</li>
<li><strong>How do I know when they’re done baking?</strong> A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.</li>
<li><strong>Do I need to refrigerate them?</strong> They can be kept at room temperature for three days but refrigerating will extend freshness.</li>
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<p>As you venture into making these Cherry Pie Bars, remember they’re not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; they're about creating joyful moments. Invite a friend to bake alongside, or surprise a loved one by sharing a batch. Cooking doesn't just fill our bellies—it fills our lives with flavor, memories, and a touch of warmth. I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out!</p>
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