Cherry Pie Bars combine the sweet, tangy goodness of cherry pie with the convenience and portability of bars. These delectable treats are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or craving a quick dessert. With a buttery crust, a luscious cherry filling, and a crumbly topping, they offer the perfect balance of flavor and texture. These Cherry Pie Bars are simple to make, and their irresistible taste will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups cherry pie filling (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut the softened butter into cubes and add it to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the dough comes together. The dough should be slightly sticky but firm enough to hold its shape.
- Set aside 1 cup of the dough mixture to use as the topping. Press the remaining dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
- Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the crust, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
- In a small bowl, combine the reserved dough with rolled oats and cinnamon, if using. Crumble the mixture over the cherry filling to create a crumbly topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the dish.
- Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles and serve.
Final Thoughts:
Cherry Pie Bars offer the perfect balance of sweetness, tartness, and texture, making them a versatile dessert choice for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them for a casual afternoon treat or as a show-stopping dessert for a gathering, these bars will surely impress. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent experience. Plus, they are easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making them ideal for busy bakers. These Cherry Pie Bars are guaranteed to become a family favorite!