Step-by-Step Instructions

 Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15x10x1-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

 Cream Butter & Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs & Extracts

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts for a fragrant base.

 Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

 Assemble the Bars

Spread 3 cups of the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Carefully spoon the cherry pie filling over the batter and spread evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the top, allowing some cherry filling to peek through.

 Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If using a 9×13-inch pan, baking may take an additional 5-10 minutes.

 Cool

Allow the Cherry Pie Bars to cool completely on a wire rack before glazing.

 Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and milk until smooth and pourable.

 Glaze & Serve

Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled bars. Once the glaze has set, cut the bars into squares and serve with coffee, tea, or as a sweet finish to your family dinners.

Tips for the Best Cherry Pie Bars

 Use full-fat butter for a richer flavor.

 Swap the cherry pie filling for blueberry, apple, or peach pie filling for seasonal variety.

 Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or almonds on top before baking for a crunchy finish.

 Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.

 For a no-bake version, use the same ingredients but layer over a graham cracker crust and chill overnight.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days for longer freshness.

Freezer: Wrap individual bars tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information (Per Bar)

• Calories: 250

• Fat: 10g

• Carbohydrates: 38g

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• Protein: 3g

• Sugar: 22g

Serving Ideas

 Pair these Cherry Pie Bars with coffee during brunch.

 Serve as a dessert at family gatherings or holiday parties.

 Cut into smaller squares for easy potluck sharing.

 Use as a sweet lunchbox treat for your kids.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries. Simply cook them down with sugar and cornstarch to create a thick filling before layering on the bars.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely! You can double the recipe and bake in two pans or use a large sheet pan.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your bars are ready.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Pie Bars are a timeless dessert that combines a buttery, tender crust with a vibrant cherry filling, finished with a sweet vanilla-almond glaze. Whether you serve them at a holiday gathering, weekend brunch, or as an afternoon treat, these bars will quickly become a family favorite.