Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Buttery Base
In a large mixing bowl:
Cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract.
Gradually mix in flour and salt until combined.
The dough will be thick—this is normal.
Step 3: Build the Bottom Layer
Spread about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
Use a spatula or lightly floured hands to press it into an even layer.
Step 4: Add the Cherry Filling
If using canned filling:
Simply spread it evenly over the crust.
If making fresh filling:
Combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a saucepan.
Cook over medium heat until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
Let cool slightly before spreading over crust.
Make sure the filling reaches the edges for even flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Add the Top Layer
Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the cherry filling.
It won’t completely cover the top—and that’s exactly what you want.
The gaps allow the cherries to peek through beautifully.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown.
The center should be set and no longer jiggly.
Let the bars cool completely before glazing or slicing. This step is crucial—cutting too early will result in messy bars.
Step 7: Drizzle the Glaze
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Drizzle over cooled bars using a spoon or piping bag.
Allow the glaze to set for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Tips for Perfect Cherry Pie Bars
Room temperature butter blends more smoothly.
Don’t overmix once flour is added—this keeps the bars tender.
If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain excess liquid first.
Chill bars for cleaner, sharper cuts.
Flavor Variations
Add almond extract instead of vanilla for a bakery-style twist.
Mix cream cheese into part of the base for a cheesecake-like layer.
Swap cherries for blueberries or raspberries.
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
Cherry pie bars deliver all the comfort of homemade pie without the extra work. They’re sweet, buttery, slightly tart, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for any dessert table.
Once you make them, they’re sure to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen.
