Cherry Pie Bars

Cherry Pie Bars 🍒✨

Introduction

Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful dessert that combines tart cherries with a sweet, soft crust. They are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want to treat yourself, these bars will hit the spot!

Why Make This Recipe

You should make Cherry Pie Bars because they are simple, delicious, and can be made with ingredients you probably already have at home. They bring the classic taste of cherry pie in a convenient, portable form. Plus, they’re great for sharing!

How to Make Cherry Pie Bars

Making Cherry Pie Bars is a straightforward process. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert ready in no time!

Ingredients:

2 packages vanilla cake mix
2 large eggs
¾ cup vegetable oil
1 to 2 cans cherry pie filling (21-ounce cans)
½ cup powdered sugar
½ teaspoon almond extract
½ tablespoon whole milk (or cream)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish to prepare for baking.
In a medium mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat together the cake mix, eggs, and vegetable oil. Mix until everything is combined well. The mixture will be thick.
Set aside half of the mixture for later. Press the remaining dough firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Bake the base for 15 minutes, then take it out of the oven.
Spread cherry pie filling over the top of the baked base. You can use one can for a light cherry flavor or two cans for extra filling.
Sprinkle the reserved dough in small clumps over the cherry pie filling.
Put the baking dish back in the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the top starts to turn golden brown.
Let the bars cool completely.
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, almond extract, and enough milk to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled cherry pie bars.
Cut into bars and serve!

How to Serve Cherry Pie Bars

Serve the Cherry Pie Bars at room temperature. They make a great dessert for parties, picnics, or just an afternoon snack. You can enjoy them plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top!

How to Store Cherry Pie Bars

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week.

Tips to Make Cherry Pie Bars

Make sure to grease your baking dish well to prevent sticking.
Adjust the amount of cherry pie filling according to your taste. More filling gives a richer flavor.
If you don’t have almond extract, vanilla extract works just fine!

Variation

You can try different fruit fillings, like blueberry or peach, to change up the flavor. Just follow the same steps!

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade cherry filling?
Yes, you can use homemade cherry filling if you have it! Just make sure it’s cooled before spreading it on the bars.

2. Can these bars be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

3. How long do these bars take to make?
It takes about 45 minutes to prepare and bake these Cherry Pie Bars, plus cooling time.

Enjoy making these Cherry Pie Bars and watch everyone smile as they taste this simple yet delightful dessert! 🍒❤️