Cherry Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cherry Bars are a sweet, buttery dessert layered with a vibrant cherry pie filling, offering the perfect balance of tart and sweet. These crowd-pleasing bars are easy to make and perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a colorful addition to any dessert table. With a soft, cake-like base and a drizzle of glaze on top, they’re a nostalgic treat that brings homemade charm to any occasion.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose floursugarunsalted buttereggsvanilla extractalmond extractbaking powdercherry pie fillingconfectioners’ sugarmilk

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 15×10-inch baking pan.

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until fully combined.

Spread about two-thirds of the batter into the prepared pan.

Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the batter layer.

Drop the remaining batter by spoonfuls over the cherry filling.

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.

In a small bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and milk to make a glaze. Drizzle over the cooled bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 36 bars.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 30-35 minutesCooling and glazing time: 45 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Use blueberry or raspberry pie filling for a different fruity twist.

Add chopped nuts to the batter for extra texture.

Sprinkle shredded coconut on top before baking for added flavor.

Substitute almond extract with lemon zest for a citrusy note.

storage/reheating

Store Cherry Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.Refrigerate for up to 1 week for extended freshness.Freeze for up to 2 months, separating layers with parchment paper.Thaw at room temperature and drizzle with fresh glaze if desired.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cherry filling?

Yes, homemade filling works great if it’s thick and not too runny.

What can I use instead of a 15×10-inch pan?

A 9×13-inch pan can work, but baking time may be slightly longer and bars thicker.

Can I omit almond extract?

Yes, vanilla alone is fine, though almond adds a distinctive flavor.

Are these bars overly sweet?

They’re balanced, but you can reduce sugar slightly in the glaze if preferred.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.

Do these need to be refrigerated?

Not immediately, but refrigerate if keeping longer than 3 days.

Can I make these ahead?

Yes, they keep well and taste even better the next day.

Can I add cream cheese?

Yes, swirl softened cream cheese into the cherry layer before baking.

What type of butter is best?

Use unsalted butter to control the salt level.

Can I add a crumble topping?

Sure, a simple streusel can be sprinkled before baking for crunch.

Conclusion

Cherry Bars are a classic, easy-to-make dessert that brings together a buttery base and tangy cherry filling in every bite. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or saving them for a sweet weekday treat, their cheerful look and delicious taste make them a go-to favorite.

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