why make this recipe
Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful way to enjoy the classic taste of cherry pie in a convenient bar form. They are easy to make, quick to bake, and perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat at home. With a buttery crust and a sweet cherry filling, these bars bring the summer flavors of fresh cherries any time of the year. Plus, they are a great option for those who want to serve dessert without the hassle of slicing a pie.
how to make Cherry Pie Bars
Ingredients:
Crust & Crumble:
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cherry Filling:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp almond extract (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat & prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- Make the crust: In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add vanilla and stir until combined. Press about 2/3 of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Prepare cherry filling: In a medium saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract. Cook over medium heat until thickened and bubbly (3–5 minutes). Let cool slightly.
- Assemble the bars: Spread the cherry filling evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top.
- Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling. Cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for 1–2 hours to set.
- Serve: Lift the bars from the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares and enjoy!
how to serve Cherry Pie Bars
Cherry Pie Bars can be served as a dessert or a sweet snack. They are delicious on their own, or you can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra treat. They pair well with a cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for afternoon gatherings.
how to store Cherry Pie Bars
To store Cherry Pie Bars, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the bars for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn.
tips to make Cherry Pie Bars
- Make sure to let the cherry filling cool slightly before spreading it on the crust. This helps prevent the crust from getting soggy.
- If you like a sweeter filling, you can adjust the sugar in the cherry filling to your taste.
- For a bit more flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the crumble mixture.
variation
You can try using different fruits, like blueberries or peaches, for the filling. The process remains the same, so you can enjoy a variety of flavors. Another idea is to add a sprinkle of nuts to the crumble for some added crunch.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned cherries instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, you can use canned cherries, but make sure to drain them well to avoid extra moisture.
2. Is it necessary to refrigerate the bars?
Refrigerating helps the bars set better and keeps them fresh longer, but you can serve them right after cooling at room temperature if you prefer.
3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free. Just ensure the other ingredients are also gluten-free.
