Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful take on the traditional cherry pie, offering all the flavor with less effort and more servings. These bars are perfect for parties, picnics, or casual family desserts. With a buttery shortbread-like base and a luscious cherry pie filling, this recipe is both nostalgic and crowd-pleasing. You don’t need a pie crust or complicated techniques—just simple pantry ingredients and a love for home baking. The soft, golden crust holds a sweet and tart cherry layer, finished with a vanilla glaze that adds the perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients
For the crust and topping:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 and 3/4 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
For the glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2–3 teaspoons milk
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using a hand or stand mixer
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract and almond extract if using
Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet mixture and mix until well combined. The batter will be thick
Spread about two-thirds of the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it into an even layer with a spatula or your hands
Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the bottom layer, making sure to distribute the cherries across the surface
Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the cherry layer. It’s okay if the filling is not completely covered—the batter will spread as it bakes
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 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 allow them to cool in the pan for about 30 minutes
While the bars are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk in a small bowl until smooth and pourable
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars using a spoon or piping bag. Let the glaze set for at least 10 minutes before slicing
Cut the bars into squares or rectangles and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to five days
Conclusion
Cherry Pie Bars are an irresistible treat that combines the charm of cherry pie with the ease of a dessert bar. The sweet, fruity filling contrasts beautifully with the rich, buttery crust and a hint of almond adds a unique flavor depth. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, baking for a potluck, or simply craving a nostalgic bite of cherry pie, this recipe delivers warmth and comfort in every bite. It’s simple enough for beginners yet delicious enough to become a family favorite. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to cherry dessert.