Cherry Pie Bars
Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of cherry pie with the convenience of a bar. They offer a sweet and tangy taste in every bite, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a sunny picnic or having a cozy night at home, these bars are sure to please everyone.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Cherry Pie Bars is simple and requires minimal ingredients. They are quick to prepare and bake, perfect for those times when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen. The bars are also easy to cut and serve, making them ideal for sharing at gatherings. Plus, their vibrant cherry filling is a hit with both kids and adults!
How to Make Cherry Pie Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can cherry pie filling
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
- Stir in melted butter until a crumbly mixture forms.
- Press two-thirds of the mixture into the bottom of a greased 8×8 baking dish.
- Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the cherry filling.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before slicing into bars.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
How to Serve Cherry Pie Bars
Cherry Pie Bars can be served warm or at room temperature. They are great on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Dusting them with powdered sugar adds a nice touch and makes them look even more appealing.
How to Store Cherry Pie Bars
To store leftover Cherry Pie Bars, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Tips to Make Cherry Pie Bars
- For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the crumb mixture.
- Make sure the butter is melted but not too hot when mixing it with the dry ingredients to avoid cooking the flour.
- If you love a thicker crust, increase the ingredients for the crust and topping by half.
Variation
You can easily switch things up by using different types of pie filling, such as blueberry or peach, instead of cherry. Adding nuts or oats to the crumb mixture can also give it a delightful texture and flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?
A: Yes, you can use fresh cherries. Just make sure to pit and chop them, and you may want to add a bit of sugar to sweeten them.
Q: How long do these bars last?
A: Cherry Pie Bars can last up to a week in the refrigerator and up to three months in the freezer when stored correctly.
Q: Can I make these bars gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.
Enjoy making and sharing your Cherry Pie Bars! They’re easy to whip up and will leave everyone wanting more.
