Cherry Pie Bars
Introduction
Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of cherries with a soft, buttery base. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, picnic, or just a day when you want something sweet. These bars are easy to make and are sure to impress everyone!
Why Make This Recipe
Why should you make Cherry Pie Bars? They are super simple, quick to prepare, and packed with flavor. Plus, they’re a fun way to enjoy the classic taste of cherry pie without the hassle of a traditional pie crust. You can easily share them with friends and family, making your gatherings even sweeter!
How to Make Cherry Pie Bars
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 2 x 21 oz cherry pie filling
- 2/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1-2 tablespoons whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 packages vanilla cake mix
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a bowl, mix together the vanilla cake mix, eggs, and vegetable oil until smooth.
- Spread half of this mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the cherry pie filling over the batter and spread it out evenly.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the cherry filling.
- Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool, then dust them with powdered sugar before enjoying.
How to Serve Cherry Pie Bars
Serve these Cherry Pie Bars warm or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own, but you can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat!
How to Store Cherry Pie Bars
To store Cherry Pie Bars, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can also refrigerate them for about a week.
Tips to Make Cherry Pie Bars
- Make sure to spread the cherry filling evenly for a better balance of flavors.
- If you love almond flavor, stick with the almond extract; it adds a lovely touch!
- For an extra sweet finish, try adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
Variation
You can swap out the cherry filling for other flavors like blueberry or apple if you’re feeling adventurous. Each variation brings a new twist to the classic recipe!
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Yes! If you have fresh cherries, you can pit and slice them, then mix them with a little sugar and cornstarch to make your own filling.
2. Can I freeze Cherry Pie Bars?
Absolutely! Just make sure they are fully cooled before wrapping them tightly and placing them in the freezer. They should last for up to 3 months.
3. How do I know when they are done baking?
The bars should be golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.
