Description
Welcome to another delightful recipe that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth! Today, we’re diving into the world of Cherry Pie Bars, a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, preparing a family gathering, or just craving something sweet, these Cherry Pie Bars will hit the spot. They combine the comforting flavors of cherry pie with the simplicity of a bar recipe, making them an ideal treat for fans of fruity desserts.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp almond extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract
- 2 tbsp milk
If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. For a vegan version, you can replace the butter with plant-based margarine and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 15x10x1-inch pan with non-stick spray, ensuring your bars won’t stick to the pan.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 2 cups of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Beat in the 4 eggs, one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Adding the eggs gradually helps maintain the smooth texture of the batter.
Step 4: Add Vanilla and Almond Extracts
Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract and ¼ tsp almond extract for that signature flavor that pairs so well with the cherries.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 tsp of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Step 6: Assemble the Bars
Spread 3 cups of the batter evenly over the bottom of the prepared pan. Top this with the cherry pie filling, spreading it in an even layer. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the cherry filling, creating pockets of dough across the top.
Step 7: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you’re using a 9×13-inch pan, note that the baking time may increase slightly.
Step 8: Cool the Bars
Once done, remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 9: Prepare the Glaze
While the bars cool, prepare the glaze by whisking together 1 cup powdered sugar, ½ tsp vanilla extract, ½ tsp almond extract, and 2 tbsp milk in a small bowl. Mix until smooth.
Step 10: Drizzle and Serve
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars. Once the glaze has set, cut the bars into squares, and they’re ready to serve!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter helps create a fluffier dough, ensuring the bars have a tender texture.
- Fresh Ingredients: Opt for high-quality cherry pie filling or even make your own for a fresher taste.
- Customizable Filling: Don’t be afraid to swap out the cherry filling with other fruit fillings like apple, blueberry, or strawberry for a fun variation.