Cherry Bars

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar cookie dough, softened butter, egg, flour, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well blended.
3. Press the dough into the bottom of a greased baking dish evenly.
4. Spread the cherry pie filling over the dough layer, creating a luscious layer of fruit.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, and heavy whipping cream to create a smooth glaze.
7. Once the bars are cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Cut into squares and serve!

Best ways to enjoy it

Cherry Bars can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for any occasion. For a truly indulgent experience, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, which complements the fruity filling. Fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted almonds also make for fantastic pairings!

Keeping leftovers fresh

To keep your Cherry Bars tasting fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you have leftovers that you won’t eat in that time, they can be frozen. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to two months!

Helpful cooking tips

For the best results, make sure your butter is softened but not melted—this helps create that desirable texture in the crust. If you prefer a thicker layer of cherries, feel free to increase the amount of cherry pie filling. This recipe is quite forgiving, allowing for minor adjustments to suit your taste!

Creative twists

Want to switch things up? Consider adding a hint of almond extract to the dough for a nutty flavor, or top with chocolate chips before baking. You could also experiment with different fruit fillings, such as lemon or mixed berries, to keep it exciting and varied for every occasion.

Common questions

How long does it take to prepare?

From start to finish, including baking time, you’ll need about an hour to prepare these Cherry Bars.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

Absolutely! Just make sure to sweeten them appropriately since fresh cherries are less sweet than pre-sweetened pie filling.

How do I ensure my bars don’t stick?

Greasing your baking dish thoroughly before pressing in the dough will help prevent sticking. You can also line the dish with parchment paper for easy removal.

Now that you know how to make these delicious Cherry Bars, gather your ingredients and get baking! Enjoy a slice (or two) of this scrumptious dessert that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!