Cherry Pie Bars Delight

Featured in Sweet Treats for Every Occasion.

Cherry pie bars make the perfect balance of sweet and tart, featuring a buttery crust, juicy cherry filling, and a golden crumble topping. A quick almond glaze adds an extra layer of indulgence. Easy to make, these bars are perfect for parties, potlucks, or a simple dessert treat. With minimal prep and a delightful mix of textures and flavors, these bars will satisfy any sweet tooth looking for homemade comfort.

Updated on Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:02:30 GMT
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Sweet Cherry Pie Bars with Buttery Crumb Topping | mellierecipes.com

This cherry pie bar recipe transforms the classic pie experience into convenient handheld treats that perfectly balance buttery crust, sweet-tart cherry filling, and a delicate almond glaze. These bars have become my go-to dessert for potlucks and family gatherings because they travel well and disappear quickly.

I first made these bars when searching for a dessert that could withstand a summer outdoor gathering. The bars held their shape beautifully even in the heat, and my sister-in-law immediately requested the recipe after just one bite.

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

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Sweet Cherry Pie Bars with Buttery Crumb Topping | lottirecipes.com

The cherry filling is definitely the star here. My grandmother always said good cherry desserts need that hint of almond to truly shine, and she was absolutely right. The first time I made these for my family reunion, my usually stoic uncle asked for the recipe which has never happened before.

Seasonal Variations

Make Ahead Options

Serving Suggestions

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned filling?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries. Simply cook them down with sugar and cornstarch to thicken before using as a filling.

→ How do I get a crunchier topping?

Squeeze the crumb mixture into larger clumps before sprinkling it over the cherry filling for a crunchier topping.

→ What can I substitute for almond extract?

Vanilla extract is a great substitute if you prefer a different flavor profile or have an almond allergy.

→ How should I store these bars?

Store cherry pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze them. Place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper, and store for up to 3 months.

Cherry Pie Bars Treat

Buttery cherry bars with almond glaze.

Prep Time
25 Minutes
Cook Time
40 Minutes
Total Time
65 Minutes

Category: Desserts

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 12 Servings (One 13x9-inch pan of cherry pie bars)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Dry Ingredients

01 3 cups all-purpose flour
02 1 cup granulated sugar
03 1 teaspoon baking powder
04 ½ teaspoon salt

→ Wet Ingredients

05 1 cup butter, room temperature
06 1 large egg
07 ½ teaspoon almond extract
08 1-2 tablespoons milk

→ Filling and Topping

09 21 ounces cherry pie filling
10 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 13x9-inch pan with parchment paper or grease lightly.

Step 02

In a stand mixer, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Step 03

Add butter one tablespoon at a time to the dry mixture, blending until the mixture resembles crumbs.

Step 04

Mix in the egg until just combined, ensuring the mixture remains slightly crumbly.

Step 05

Press half to two-thirds of the crumb mixture evenly into the prepared pan.

Step 06

Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes or until it appears matte and lightly browned.

Step 07

Mix the cherry pie filling with ½ teaspoon almond extract.

Step 08

Spread the cherry mixture evenly over the warm baked crust.

Step 09

Distribute the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the cherry layer.

Step 10

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and filling is bubbly.

Step 11

Transfer the pan to a wire rack and let the bars cool completely.

Step 12

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and ½ teaspoon almond extract to form a glaze.

Step 13

Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars and allow it to set before cutting.

Notes

  1. You can substitute almond extract with vanilla extract if preferred.
  2. For a more substantial crumb topping, press the crumb mixture together in your hands before sprinkling.

Tools You'll Need

  • 13x9-inch baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Stand mixer
  • Wire rack

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (butter and milk).
  • Contains gluten (all-purpose flour).
  • Contains egg.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 215
  • Total Fat: 8.1 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 35.2 g
  • Protein: 2.3 g