Cherry pie bars deliver all the flavor of classic cherry pie in a simple, crowd-pleasing format. With a buttery crust, tart cherry filling, and a crumble topping, they’re perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Whether you’re a pie lover looking for convenience or a first-time baker, this recipe will exceed expectations.

Why Cherry Pie Bars Are a Must-Try

These bars combine the best elements of pie with the ease of a bar dessert. They’re portable, easy to serve, and incredibly versatile. Plus, you can make them year-round thanks to the availability of frozen sour cherries. To explore more creative dessert options, check out this no-bake strawberry shortcake recipe.

Frozen cherries are a time-saving hero for this dessert, offering convenience and vibrant flavor. Learn more about baking with frozen fruit from the experts at King Arthur Baking.

Ingredients for Cherry Pie Bars

For the Crust and Topping:

All-purpose flour: Forms the base structure.
Brown sugar: Adds depth and moisture.
Oats: Creates a crumbly texture.
Butter: Provides richness.
Baking powder and vanilla extract: Enhance flavor and lift.

For the Cherry Filling:

Frozen sour cherries: Deliver a tart, juicy filling.
Sugar and lemon juice: Balance and brighten the flavors.
Cornstarch: Ensures a thick, pie-like consistency.

How to Make Cherry Pie Bars

1. Prepare the Crust

Combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and melted butter into a crumbly mixture.
Press 2/3 of the mixture into a baking pan lined with parchment paper.
Pre-bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.

2. Make the Filling

In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, and lemon juice.
Cook until the cherries release their juices, then stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken.

3. Assemble and Bake

Spread the cherry filling over the pre-baked crust.
Sprinkle the reserved crumble mixture on top.
Bake for 40–50 minutes until golden brown.

4. Cool and Serve

Let the bars cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts.

Tips for the Best Cherry Pie Bars

Use Parchment Paper: Makes lifting and slicing easier.
Cool Completely: Warm bars may crumble when sliced.
Choose the Right Cherries: Sour cherries balance the sweetness perfectly.

For more tips on achieving the perfect dessert, explore this pineapple dream dessert recipe.

Creative Variations to Try

Elevate your cherry pie bars with these unique twists:

Chocolate-Cherry Bars: Add chocolate chips to the crumble for extra indulgence.
Nutty Topping: Mix chopped pecans or almonds into the topping for crunch.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute almond or oat flour for the crust.

For another fruity treat, consider making carrot cake with a similar rich and spiced flair.

FAQs About Cherry Pie Bars

1. Can I use fresh cherries?
Yes, fresh cherries work well, but pit them and adjust the sugar depending on their sweetness.

2. How do I store the bars?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for two days or refrigerate for up to a week.

3. Can I make these bars in advance?
Absolutely! Freeze the baked bars for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

4. How can I make the bars healthier?
Use coconut oil instead of butter and reduce the sugar in the filling.

Serving Suggestions

Pair cherry pie bars with:

Vanilla Ice Cream: Complements the tart filling beautifully.
Whipped Cream: Adds lightness to each bite.
Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage enhances the dessert’s flavors.

Final Thoughts

Cherry pie bars are an easy and versatile dessert perfect for any season. Whether you’re baking for a potluck or a cozy night at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Experiment with variations, pair them with your favorite accompaniments, and enjoy a dessert that combines simplicity with irresistible flavor! 🍒

Cherry Pie Bars: A Sweet and Easy Dessert

Author: kynall

Print Recipe

Description

Make cherry pie bars with a buttery crust, tart cherry filling, and crumbly topping. Perfect for any occasion, easy, and delicious!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust and Topping:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 large egg

For the Cherry Filling:

1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling (or homemade)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.

2. Prepare the Crust:

Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Mix well.
Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add the egg and mix until a dough forms. Divide the dough into two parts, with one slightly larger than the other.

3. Press the Crust:

Take the larger portion of the dough and press it evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form the base layer.

4. Prepare the Cherry Filling:

Mix the cherry pie filling with cornstarch (if using), vanilla extract, and almond extract in a bowl. Ensure the mixture is evenly combined.

5. Assemble the Bars:

Spread the cherry filling over the crust layer, ensuring even coverage.

6. Add the Topping:

Crumble the remaining dough over the cherry filling. Leave some gaps for a rustic look.

7. Bake the Bars:

Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

8. Cool and Serve:

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 30 minutes. Slice into squares or bars for serving.

Optional:
Top with powdered sugar or serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Tips for Success:

These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Customize with fresh or frozen cherries by making your own filling with sugar and lemon juice.
Experiment with flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or a sprinkle of nuts.

Enjoy these sweet and tangy Cherry Pie Bars at your next gathering or as a simple treat at home! 😊