Cherry Pie Bars Recipe
Cherry pie bars are a delicious dessert that combines the flavors of a classic cherry pie with the simplicity of a soft, buttery bar. These bars feature a golden crust and a rich cherry filling sandwiched between layers of tender dough. They are perfect for any occasion and make a wonderful treat for family gatherings, holidays, or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 cans cherry pie filling (21 ounces each)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture and stir until a smooth batter forms. Spread two-thirds of the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the base layer, spreading it gently with a spatula to cover the surface completely. Drop the remaining batter by spoonfuls over the cherry filling, leaving small gaps so that the cherries peek through when baked. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
Method
The key to perfect cherry pie bars is in balancing the layers. The bottom crust should be thick enough to hold the filling without becoming soggy, and the top layer should be light and golden for a beautiful finish. Using both vanilla and almond extracts enhances the flavor of the cherries and gives the dessert a rich, bakery-style aroma.
Formation
When the bars are completely cool, use a sharp knife to cut them into even squares or rectangles. For a neater presentation, wipe the knife clean between cuts. These bars can be served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with a drizzle of vanilla glaze for extra sweetness.
Benefits
Cherry pie bars are not only delicious but also provide a quick way to enjoy the taste of homemade cherry pie without the effort of making a full crust. Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and can help reduce inflammation. The butter and eggs in the recipe add richness and moisture, making each bite soft and satisfying.
Nutrition
Each serving contains approximately 250 to 300 calories depending on portion size. They offer carbohydrates for energy and a moderate amount of fat from the butter, making them an indulgent yet comforting dessert.
Conclusion
Cherry pie bars are a simple yet elegant dessert that captures the flavor of traditional cherry pie in an easy-to-serve form. With their flaky crust, sweet cherry filling, and soft golden top, they make the perfect treat for any occasion. Enjoy them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled with a cup of coffee for a delightful homemade experience.
