Cherry Bars are the perfect balance of buttery sweetness and tangy cherry filling. With a tender crust, a delicious cherry filling, and a sweet glaze, these bars are a crowd-pleaser and ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a simple dessert treat. They’re easy to make and offer a refreshing burst of flavor in every bite!
Ingredients
For the Bars:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 (21 oz) can cherry pie filling
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for a stronger flavor)
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (adjust for desired consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the almond extract, vanilla extract, and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Cherry Bars
- Spread two-thirds of the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out to create an even layer.
- Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the batter.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the cherry filling, leaving some gaps to allow the cherries to peek through.
Step 4: Bake the Cherry Bars
- Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and 2-3 tablespoonsof milk or heavy cream until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
Step 6: Glaze the Bars
- Once the bars are completely cooled, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top.
- Allow the glaze to set for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Cut the bars into squares or rectangles and serve them at room temperature. They’re perfect on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Cook Notes
- Almond Extract: The almond extract adds a lovely depth of flavor that complements the cherries, but if you prefer, you can use just vanilla extract.
- Cherry Filling: You can use store-bought cherry pie filling for convenience, but homemade cherry filling works just as well.
- Glaze Consistency: Adjust the glaze thickness to your liking by adding more or less milk. A thicker glaze will be more opaque and add sweetness, while a thinner glaze will lightly coat the bars.
Variations
Mixed Berry Bars
Swap out the cherry pie filling for any berry filling of your choice, such as blueberry, strawberry, or a mix of berries for a colorful and flavorful twist.
Chocolate Cherry Bars
Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cherry bars in addition to the glaze, or fold 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter for a chocolate-cherry combination.
Cream Cheese Cherry Bars
For a creamy twist, swirl 4 oz of softened cream cheese into the cherry pie filling before spreading it over the batter for a tangy, rich layer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, cherry bars can be made ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The glaze may absorb slightly into the bars over time, but they will still taste delicious.
How do I store leftover cherry bars?
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the bars (without the glaze) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before adding the glaze and serving.
Can I use fresh cherries?
Yes! If you prefer fresh cherries, cook 2 cups of pitted cherries with 1/2 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and a squeeze of lemon juice over medium heat until thickened. Let it cool before using as the filling.
Cherry Bars are a deliciously sweet and slightly tart dessert that combines a buttery base with a fruity cherry filling and a sweet glaze. They are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them at home. With just a few simple ingredients and a short prep time, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation!