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These Cherry Pie Bars bring the nostalgic taste of homemade cherry pie in an easy, handheld form! With a buttery shortbread crust, sweet cherry filling, and crumbly topping, they’re perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a simple family treat. Even better—they’re easier than pie (no rolling required!).
Table of Contents | Cherry Pie Bars
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pie Bars
✅ Simple & Quick – No pie crust rolling, just press and bake!
✅ Perfect Texture – Buttery, tender crust with gooey cherry filling.
✅ Crowd-Pleasing – A hit at parties, picnics, and bake sales.
✅ Kid-Friendly – Great for baking with little helpers.
Ingredients & Substitutions
For the Crust & Topping:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Salted butter works (reduce added salt to ¼ tsp).
- 1¾ cups granulated sugar – Adjust to taste (1½ cups works for less sweetness).
- 4 large eggs – Binds the dough.
- 1½ tsp vanilla extract – Enhances flavor.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – For a tender crumb.
For the Filling:
- 2 (21 oz) cans cherry pie filling – Or use homemade (see variations).
Optional Garnish:
- Powdered sugar – For a pretty finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions | Cherry Pie Bars
1️⃣ Prep & Preheat
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch pan or line with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Make the Dough
- Beat butter, sugar, and salt until fluffy (~3 mins).
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
- Gradually add flour until just combined.
3️⃣ Layer the Bars
- Press ⅔ of the dough into the pan (smooth with a spatula).
- Spread cherry pie filling evenly over the dough.
- Drop remaining dough in small clumps over the cherries (it’ll spread while baking).
4️⃣ Bake & Cool
- Bake 35-40 mins until golden.
- Cool completely before slicing (or filling will ooze!).
5️⃣ Serve!
- Dust with powdered sugar (optional).
- Cut into squares and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Bars
🔪 Clean Cuts – Chill briefly before slicing.
🍒 Extra Cherry Flavor – Add ½ tsp almond extract to the dough.
🔥 Avoid Overbaking – Top should be lightly golden (not dark brown).
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips | Cherry Pie Bars
❄ Room Temp – Keeps 2 days covered.
⛄ Fridge – Stores 5 days (great for meal prep!).
🍽 Freezer – Freeze unbaked or baked (up to 3 months).
Delicious Variations | Cherry Pie Bars
🫐 Mixed Berry Bars – Use blueberry or strawberry pie filling.
🍫 Chocolate-Cherry – Add ½ cup cocoa powder to the dough.
🥜 Almond Crunch – Sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking.
Final Thoughts | Cherry Pie Bars
These Cherry Pie Bars are buttery, fruity, and irresistibly easy—the ultimate dessert for cherry lovers!
Try them today and share your creations! 📸 #CherryPieBars