Cherry Pie Bars

These Cherry Pie Bars are a soft, buttery, and fruity dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With a cookie-like crust, a layer of sweet cherry filling, and a light vanilla glaze on top, this treat combines comfort and flavor in every bite.
They’re ideal for parties, holidays, or as a quick homemade dessert to enjoy with coffee or ice cream.

Ingredients:
For the crust and topping:

1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened

1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar

4 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but recommended)

3 cups (400 g) all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

For the filling:

1 can (21 oz / ~600 g) cherry pie filling
(or use thick cherry jam if preferred)

For the glaze (optional):

1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar

1–2 tablespoons milk

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:
1. Prepare the pan and oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch (33×23 cm) baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. Make the dough

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (using an electric mixer works best).

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Mix in the vanilla and almond extract.

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.

3. Assemble the layers

Spread about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared pan.

Spoon the cherry pie filling over the crust, spreading it evenly.

Drop small spoonfuls of the remaining dough on top of the cherry layer (no need to cover it completely).

4. Bake

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden.

Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting.

5. Add the glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.

Drizzle over the cooled bars.

Tips and Variations

For a fresher flavor, make your own cherry filling by cooking fresh cherries with sugar and a bit of cornstarch.

These bars store well in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature, or 1 week in the fridge.

You can freeze them for up to 2 months.

These Cherry Pie Bars are the perfect combination of sweet, buttery, and fruity goodness. They’re easy to make, look beautiful on any dessert table, and bring the flavor of cherry pie in a simple bar form. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just treating yourself, these bars are sure to impress!