Cherry Pie Bars Recipe

If you're looking for a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of cherry pie with the convenience of a bar, then cherry pie bars are the perfect treat for you. These bars are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to potlucks. Follow this comprehensive guide to make your own delicious cherry pie bars that will impress everyone. Get ready to indulge in the irresistible combination of a buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and a luscious glaze. Read on to discover the secrets to making the best cherry pie bars ever!

What are Cherry Pie Bars?

Cherry pie bars are a delightful twist on the traditional cherry pie. They feature a buttery, crumbly crust, a sweet and tangy cherry filling, and a light glaze on top. These bars are baked in a large pan and then cut into squares or rectangles, making them easy to serve and share. They are perfect for those who love the taste of cherry pie but want the convenience of a handheld treat. Whether you're serving them at a party or enjoying them as a special dessert at home, cherry pie bars are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients List for Cherry Pie Bars

To make cherry pie bars, you'll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a delicious treat. Here's what you'll need for the crust, filling, and glaze:

For the Crust:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup rolled oats
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed, 2 sticks)

For the Filling:

• 42 ounces cherry pie filling (2 (21-ounce) cans)

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Substitutions and Variations

Cherry pie bars are versatile, and you can easily customize them to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free oats to make the crust.
• Dairy-Free: Replace the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil.
• Different Fruit Fillings: Substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings like blueberry, apple, or peach.
• Nuts: Add chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts to the crust for extra crunch and flavor.
• Spices: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Creating cherry pie bars is a straightforward process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your own delicious cherry pie bars:

How to Cook Cherry Pie Bars: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a large bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, granulated sugar, and salt.
   • Add the cold, cubed butter to the mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Press half of the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
3. Add the Filling:
   • Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the crust layer in the baking pan.
4. Top with Remaining Crust:
   • Sprinkle the remaining crust mixture over the cherry pie filling, pressing it down gently.
5. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
6. Cool:
   • Remove the pan from the oven and allow the cherry pie bars to cool completely in the pan.
7. Prepare the Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
8. Drizzle the Glaze:
   • Once the bars are cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. Let the glaze set before cutting into bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making cherry pie bars is simple, but here are some common mistakes to avoid to ensure your bars turn out perfectly:

• Overmixing the Crust: Mixing the crust ingredients too much can result in a tough crust. Mix just until the ingredients come together.
• Using Warm Butter: Cold butter is crucial for a flaky crust. Ensure your butter is cold and cubed before mixing it into the dry ingredients.
• Not Cooling Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before glazing and cutting. This helps them set properly and makes them easier to cut.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Cherry pie bars are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some tips on how to serve and present your cherry pie bars:

How to Serve Cherry Pie Bars

• Cutting: Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into even squares or rectangles. For clean edges, wipe the knife between cuts.
• Temperature: Serve the bars at room temperature or slightly chilled. They can be stored in the refrigerator and brought to room temperature before serving.

Presentation Ideas for Cherry Pie Bars

• Platter Arrangement: Arrange the bars neatly on a serving platter. You can add a garnish of fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
• Individual Wrapping: For a grab-and-go option, wrap individual bars in parchment paper or cellophane bags. Tie with a ribbon for a festive presentation.
• Layering: Layer the bars in a dessert tray with parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.

Cherry Pie Bars Recipe Tips

Here are some additional tips to help you make the best cherry pie bars:

• Chill the Dough: If the dough becomes too warm while preparing the crust, chill it in the refrigerator for a few minutes before pressing it into the pan.
• Even Layering: Spread the cherry filling and crust layers evenly to ensure each bar has a balanced flavor.
• Storing: Store the cherry pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Fresh Cherries for the Filling?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries to make your own filling. Combine pitted cherries with sugar, cornstarch, and a bit of lemon juice, and cook until thickened.

Can I Freeze Cherry Pie Bars?

Yes, cherry pie bars can be frozen. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I Use a Different Type of Oats?

Yes, you can use quick oats if you don't have rolled oats. The texture may be slightly different, but they will still work.

Can I Double the Recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake in a larger pan or two separate pans. Adjust the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

Cherry pie bars are a delightful and convenient way to enjoy the classic flavors of cherry pie. With a buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and a simple glaze, these bars are sure to become a favorite dessert. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade cherry pie bars. Happy baking!

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