Cherry Pie Bars Recipe

Cherry pie bars are a delightful dessert that combines the sweet and tart flavors of cherries with a buttery, crumbly crust. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are a great alternative to traditional cherry pie, offering all the deliciousness in a convenient, easy-to-serve format. Whether you're preparing for a family gathering, a potluck, or just craving a sweet treat, this cherry pie bars recipe is sure to impress. Read on to discover the secrets to making the best cherry pie bars!

What are Cherry Pie Bars?

Cherry pie bars are a dessert that takes the classic elements of a cherry pie and transforms them into a bar form. They typically feature a buttery crust, a layer of cherry filling, and a crumbly topping. These bars are easier to make and serve than a traditional pie, making them a popular choice for casual gatherings and potlucks. The combination of the tart cherry filling with the sweet and buttery crust creates a perfect balance of flavors that is irresistible.

Ingredients List for Cherry Pie Bars

To make these delicious cherry pie bars, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Crust and Topping:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Cherry Filling:

• 4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Substitutions and Variations

There are several substitutions and variations you can try with this cherry pie bars recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Butter: Substitute with margarine or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
• Sugar: Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia to reduce the sugar content.
• Flour: Gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used instead of regular flour for a gluten-free option.
• Cherries: Try using other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries for a different flavor profile.
• Lemon Juice: Lime juice can be used as a substitute for a slightly different tang.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Cherry Pie Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust and Topping
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and mix until combined. Reserve 1 cup of the mixture for the topping. Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.

Step 3: Bake the Crust
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while preparing the filling.

Step 4: Make the Cherry Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars
Pour the cherry filling over the baked crust, spreading it out evenly. Crumble the reserved crust mixture over the cherry filling.

Step 6: Bake the Bars
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cherry pie bars.

Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once the bars are completely cooled and the glaze is set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan. Slice into squares and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making cherry pie bars, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to a tough crust. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Using Watery Cherries: If using frozen cherries, make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid a watery filling.
• Not Letting the Bars Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to ensure they hold their shape.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Cherry Pie Bars

Cherry pie bars are best served at room temperature or slightly chilled. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra touch, dust the bars with a bit of powdered sugar just before serving.

Presentation Ideas for Cherry Pie Bars

For a beautiful presentation, consider the following ideas:

• Drizzle with Extra Glaze: Add an extra drizzle of the glaze just before serving for a polished look.
• Garnish with Fresh Cherries: Top each bar with a fresh cherry or a mint leaf for a pop of color.
• Use Decorative Plates: Serve the bars on decorative plates or a tiered dessert stand for an elegant touch.

Cherry Pie Bars Recipe Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Use a Food Processor: A food processor can be used to make the crust and topping mixture more quickly and easily.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your cherries before cooking the filling. If they are very sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use canned cherry pie filling instead of fresh or frozen cherries?
A: Yes, you can use canned cherry pie filling. Simply spread it over the baked crust and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Q: How should I store leftover cherry pie bars?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make cherry pie bars ahead of time?
A: Yes, cherry pie bars can be made a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and glaze just before serving.

Q: What other fruits can I use for pie bars?
A: You can use a variety of fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, peaches, or a combination of berries for different flavors.

Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make gluten-free cherry pie bars.

Conclusion

Cherry pie bars are a delicious and versatile dessert that captures the essence of a traditional cherry pie in a convenient bar form. With a buttery crust, a luscious cherry filling, and a sweet glaze, these bars are sure to be a hit at any gathering. By following the step-by-step instructions and tips provided, you'll be able to create perfect cherry pie bars every time. Enjoy this delightful treat with family and friends, and don't be afraid to experiment with different variations to suit your taste. Happy baking!

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