Cherry Pie Bars: 5 Reasons You'll Love This Classic Treat

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Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic cherry pie, featuring a buttery crust and sweet cherry filling topped with a crunchy crumble and almond icing. These bars are perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, and family get-togethers, bringing the taste of homemade cherry pie in a convenient and shareable form. You won’t just love how they taste; their vibrant color and texture will make them a hit at any dessert table!

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pie Bars

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Cherry Pie Bars. Firstly, they offer a scrumptious blend of tart cherries and sweet sugar, making them a favorite among fruit dessert lovers. Secondly, they are incredibly easy to make, allowing even novice bakers to whip up a batch with minimal effort. These bars are also perfect for meal prep, as you can make them ahead of time and store them for later. Their versatility means they can be served warm or cold, with or without toppings. The addition of almond extract gives them a unique flavor twist that sets them apart from typical cherry dessert bars. Plus, they appeal to various dietary preferences as they can be made vegetarian!

Ingredients for Cherry Pie Bars

Gather these items:

1 and 2/3 cups (205g) all-purpose flour
1 and 1/8 cups (95g) old-fashioned rolled oats, divided
1/2 cup (105g) packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/8 teaspoon salt
11 tablespoons (155g) unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 and 2/3 tablespoons (12g) cornstarch
4 cups (600g) frozen sour cherries
2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
1 and 1/4 cups (150g) powdered sugar
3 tablespoons (45ml) milk
1/4 teaspoon almond extract

How to Make Cherry Pie Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving extra on the sides for easy removal.
Step 2: For the crust: Whisk the flour, 1 cup of oats, brown sugar, baking powder, lemon zest, and salt in a medium-sized bowl. Add melted butter and vanilla, stirring until the mixture resembles moist crumbs. Press about 2/3 of it into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: For the filling: In a small bowl, place the cornstarch. In a medium saucepan, combine the frozen cherries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cherries release their juices, about 4-6 minutes. Transfer a spoonful of the juice into the bowl with the cornstarch and stir until dissolved. Pour the cornstarch mixture into the filling and bring it to a boil. Cook until the filling thickens, about 10 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in almond extract.
Step 4: Spread the filling evenly over the crust. Add 2 tablespoons of oats to the remaining crumble mixture, then sprinkle it on top of the filling. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned. Allow the bars to cool completely.
Step 5: For the optional icing: Whisk the powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract together until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bars.
Step 6: Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Place on a cutting board and cut into squares. Store leftovers at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cherry Pie Bars

Keep these in mind:

Allow bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean squares.
Store in an airtight container for freshness, especially if you’re preparing them for parties.
For a delightful twist, consider adding cream cheese to the filling for a rich flavor.
Experiment with flavors by using different extracts or adding spices like cinnamon for extra warmth.

Best Ways to Serve Cherry Pie Bars

These bars can be served in various delightful ways. They shine when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top, making them a perfect dessert for summer gatherings. If you want to impress your guests, try serving them with a drizzle of almond icing to enhance the flavor. You can also cut them into smaller squares for a sweet addition to dessert platters or picnic baskets.

How to Store and Reheat Cherry Pie Bars

The best way to store these delicious bars is in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply reheat them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes, or microwave them for about 10-15 seconds for a quick treat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Pie Bars

What are cherry pie bars?

Cherry Pie Bars are a versatile dessert that combines the classic flavors of cherry pie into a handheld bar form. They feature a buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and often a crumbly topping or icing.

Can I make cherry pie bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars are perfect for meal prep. You can make them a day or two in advance, store them in the fridge, and enjoy them when ready.

How do I avoid common mistakes with cherry pie bars?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your filling is properly thickened before spreading it onto the crust. Additionally, make sure to cool the bars completely before cutting to maintain their shape.

Variations of Cherry Pie Bars You Can Try

There are so many fun variations to explore! Consider making cherry crumble bars by adding a crunchy oat topping. For a unique twist, try cherry bars with graham cracker crust or add a touch of almond flavor for a nutty profile. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even mix in some cream cheese for a creamy delight!

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out Baked Garlic Chicken Meatloaf or Irresistible Thai Red Curry Kabobs. If you’re looking for a delightful treat, Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies are a must-try!