Introduction
Cherry pie bars are a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of cherry pie with the convenience of a bar. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a summer picnic. The buttery crust and sweet cherry filling make for a mouthwatering treat that is sure to impress your friends and family. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making cherry pie bars from scratch, providing you with all the necessary ingredients and steps to create this delicious dessert.
Ingredients
To make cherry pie bars, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tablespoon milk
Steps
Now that we have the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making cherry pie bars:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Reserve 1 and 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture for later use. Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the cherry pie filling with almond extract. Spread the filling over the crust in the baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the cherry filling, evenly covering the top.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk to make the glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
Variations
There are endless variations you can try to customize your cherry pie bars:
– Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to the crumb mixture for extra crunch.
– Substitute the cherry pie filling with other fruit fillings, such as blueberry, apple, or raspberry.
– Sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg over the filling to add a warm and cozy flavor.
Tips
Here are a few tips to ensure your cherry pie bars turn out perfect:
– Make sure the butter for the crust is cold and cubed. This will help create a flaky and tender crust.
– If your cherry pie filling is too sweet, you can balance it out by adding a squeeze of lemon juice.
– Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. This will help the filling set and make it easier to slice.
Conclusion
Cherry pie bars are a delicious and convenient dessert that everyone will love. With their buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and optional glaze, these bars are a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving something sweet, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of making my own?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought pie crust for convenience. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for baking times and temperatures.
Q: How long can I store the cherry pie bars?
A: The bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.
Q: Can I freeze the cherry pie bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
