Cherry Bars Recipe

Cherry Bars Recipe – Easy, Scrumptious, and Perfect for Any Occasion

If you love the sweet, tart flavor of cherry pie but dread the effort of rolling crusts and filling pies, these Cherry Bars are your ultimate solution. They deliver all the decadence of a traditional pie in a convenient, handheld bar format. Perfect for dessert tables, potlucks, or everyday sweet indulgence, these bars feature a rich buttery dough topped with luscious cherry filling, creating a mouthwatering contrast that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Picture biting into a tender, buttery base, followed by a burst of vibrant cherry filling, finished with a delicate glaze that adds the perfect touch of sweetness. These bars are easy to prepare yet yield professional bakery-quality results, making them irresistible for home bakers of all levels.

Ingredients & Their Roles

For the Cherry Bars:

• 1 ½ cups butter, softened: Provides richness, moisture, and a tender crumb for the bars, making each bite decadent.
• 3 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and promotes browning during baking for a golden crust.
• 1 ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor, balances sweetness, and intensifies the natural cherry taste.
• 5 large eggs: Bind ingredients together, add structure, and ensure the bars are moist and tender.
• 1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and warmth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• 1 ½ teaspoon almond extract: Intensifies cherry flavor and introduces a subtle nutty aroma that complements the filling beautifully.
• 5 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Forms a sturdy yet tender base for the bars, giving them structure without compromising softness.
• 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder: Provides slight lift, keeping the bars light and airy rather than dense.
• 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling: The star of the show! Provides the sweet and tangy fruit layer that makes these bars unforgettable.

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup confectioner’s sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet finish for visual appeal and added sweetness.
• 3 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the glaze consistency for drizzling perfectly over the bars.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12×17-inch jelly roll pan with aluminum foil and lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray. This step ensures the bars will release easily and makes cleanup effortless.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar for 1–2 minutes until light and fluffy. This incorporates air into the dough, yielding a tender texture for your bars.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Mix in the salt, eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully combined. These ingredients create a rich, aromatic base that pairs beautifully with the cherry filling.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Add the flour and baking powder to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough bars; gentle folding ensures a soft, tender texture.

Step 5: Prepare the Pan

Spread half of the dough evenly in the prepared pan, pressing it gently to form the base layer. Even distribution ensures consistent thickness and baking.

Step 6: Add Cherry Filling

Carefully spoon the cherry pie filling over the base, spreading it evenly. This creates the sweet, tangy center that contrasts perfectly with the buttery crust.

Step 7: Top Layer

Break up the remaining dough into small pieces and distribute them over the cherry filling. These pieces bake into a tender, slightly crumbly topping that adds texture and visual appeal.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the filling bubbles slightly. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning. Allow to cool completely before adding the glaze.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

Whisk together confectioner’s sugar and milk until smooth. Adjust milk quantity to achieve desired drizzle consistency. Drizzle over cooled bars for added sweetness and presentation.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cherry Bars

• Softened butter should be at room temperature for smooth creaming.
• Gently fold dry ingredients to avoid overworking the dough.
• Ensure bars are fully cooled before glazing to prevent melting or runny glaze.
• Use high-quality cherry pie filling for optimal flavor and color.
• Optional: Toast slivered almonds on top for extra crunch and flavor.

Variations and Creative Twists

• Mix other fruit fillings like blueberry, raspberry, or peach for seasonal variations.
• Add a layer of cream cheese filling for a richer texture.
• Incorporate chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate for a decadent twist.
• Use almond or pecan extract in addition to almond extract for a more complex flavor.
• Top with a streusel mixture instead of dough pieces for extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

• Cut into squares for dessert tables, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
• Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or milk for a comforting treat.
• Serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience.
• Wrap individually for lunchbox treats or snack on-the-go.

Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for longer shelf life, up to 5–6 days.
• Freeze unglazed bars in a tightly wrapped container for up to 2 months. Thaw before adding glaze.

Historical and Cultural Notes

Cherry desserts have a long history in European and American baking traditions. From classic cherry pies to tarts and pastries, cherries have symbolized abundance and celebration. These Cherry Bars bring that tradition into a convenient, modern format, allowing home bakers to enjoy the nostalgia and flavor without the complexity of pie-making.

Conclusion

These Cherry Bars are the perfect combination of buttery richness, vibrant fruit, and sweet glaze. They’re easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion — whether it’s a family dessert, holiday treat, or simple indulgence at home. With detailed instructions, pro tips, and creative variations, this recipe empowers home bakers to create bakery-quality results with ease and confidence.