Cherry Pie Bars Recipe

Make these easy, delicious cherry pie bars with a buttery crust and sweet-tart cherry filling. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any dessert occasion!

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Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 25

Cook Time: 45

Cooling: 2

Total Time: 3 10

Servings: Bars

Calories: 215kcal

Cost: $14.52

Equipment

9x13 inch baking pan
Parchment paper
Large mixing bowl
Medium saucepan
Measuring cups and spoons
Pastry cutter

Ingredients

For the Crust and Crumble

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup cold unsalted butter cubed
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cherry Filling

4 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
⅔ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup cornstarch
2 tablespoons lemon juice
½ teaspoon almond extract optional
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line 9x13-inch pan with parchment paper.

Make the Crust:

Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt
Cut in cold butter until crumbly
Add egg and vanilla, mix until dough forms
Press ⅔ of mixture into prepared pan

Prepare Filling:

Combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt in saucepan
Cook over medium heat until thickened (5-7 minutes)
Add almond extract if using
Cool slightly

Assemble and Bake:

Pour filling over crust
Crumble remaining dough on top
Bake 40-45 minutes until golden
Cool completely before cutting

Notes

Make ahead friendly: Can be made 1-2 days in advance
Use cold butter for best crust texture
Let cool completely for clean cuts
Can use fresh or frozen cherries

Nutrition