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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15x10x1-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs & Extracts
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture and mix until just combined.
5. Assemble the Bars
Spread about 3 cups of the batter into the prepared pan. Spoon cherry pie filling over the batter and spread evenly. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter on top.
6. Bake
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. For a 9×13-inch pan, bake 5–10 minutes longer if needed.
7. Cool
Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Prepare the Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and milk until smooth.
9. Glaze & Serve
Drizzle glaze over cooled bars. Once set, cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Variations
Use full-fat butter for richer flavor
Swap cherry for blueberry, apple, or peach filling
Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or almonds for crunch
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream
For a no-bake version, layer ingredients over graham cracker crust and chill
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Refrigerator: Store up to 5 days
Freezer: Wrap bars individually and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
Time & Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes plus cooling
Yield: 24 bars
Tools Used
Mixing bowls
Hand or stand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
15x10x1-inch baking pan
Whisk
Wire rack
Nutrition Information (Per Bar)
Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 3g
Sugar: 22g
Serving Ideas
Pair with coffee during brunch
Serve as dessert at family gatherings
Cut into mini squares for potlucks
Add to lunchboxes for a sweet treat
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned pie filling?
Yes! Cook them down with sugar and cornstarch until thickened.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely. Use two pans or a large sheet pan.
How do I know when the bars are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, they’re ready.
Final Thoughts
These Cherry Pie Bars are a timeless dessert that combines a flaky, buttery crust with vibrant cherry filling and a sweet glaze. They’re perfect for gatherings, brunch, or an afternoon coffee break. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll bring bakery-quality treats to your home effortlessly.
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