Imagine biting into the best combination of fruit pie and soft, tender cookie: that’s exactly what you get with these Cherry Pie Bars. With a buttery, golden crust, sweet-tart cherry filling, and a luscious almond glaze on top, every bite feels like a mini celebration. They’re irresistible for bake sales, potlucks, or just a weekend treat with family. Whether you serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoy them straight from the pan, Cherry Pie Bars are bound to become one of your favorite easy desserts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Cherry Pie Bars lies in their simple, everyday ingredients, each one enhancing the flavors and textures that make this dessert special. You probably have most of these at home already, but a few extra touches really bring everything together.

Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): Gives your bars that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture you crave in a homemade treat.
Granulated Sugar (2 cups): Sweetens the dough and helps create a golden, slightly crisp top and edges.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warm, familiar notes that balance out the bright cherry flavor.
Almond Extract (1/2 teaspoon + 1/4 teaspoon for glaze): Elevates the filling with a hint of nuttiness and pairs beautifully with cherries.
Eggs (4 large): Bind everything together for a tender, cake-like crumb.
All-Purpose Flour (3 cups): Provides the structure of the bars without making them dense.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and sharpens all the other flavors.
Cherry Pie Filling (1 can, 21 oz): The star of the show; it brings a fruity burst in every bite.
Powdered Sugar (1 cup): For a silky-sweet glaze that finishes the bars with style.
Milk (2 tablespoons): Helps thin the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.

How to Make Cherry Pie Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready when your batter is done. Take a 9×13-inch baking pan and give it a thorough greasing, then dust it lightly with flour. This crucial step ensures your Cherry Pie Bars release easily with perfectly crisp edges and tender centers.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened butter with the granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is fluffy and pale. This aeration is what makes the crust tender rather than dense.

Step 3: Add Flavorings and Eggs

Beat in the vanilla extract and almond extract. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This method gives you a smoother, brighter batter, with every egg fully incorporated for even baking.

Step 4: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour and salt to your wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Take care not to overmix; this keeps the bars soft and light.

Step 5: Layer the Batter and Cherry Filling

Spread about two-thirds of the batter evenly in your prepared pan; a spatula makes this easier. Spoon the cherry pie filling gently on top, being careful not to disturb the bottom layer. Drop the remaining batter by spoonfuls across the cherry layer for a charming, rustic look.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. Look for lightly golden edges and a center that springs back when touched. Test by inserting a toothpick near the middle—when it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, you’re good to go.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze

Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Mix together powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract in a small bowl until smooth and pourable. Drizzle this creamy glaze over the cooled Cherry Pie Bars, allowing little rivulets to form—delightful in every bite.

How to Serve Cherry Pie Bars

Garnishes

Give your Cherry Pie Bars a little extra flair! A sprinkling of sliced almonds before baking adds crunch and elegance. You can also dust finished bars with extra powdered sugar or add a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a mug of hot coffee, or a bright fruit salad. Their sweetness complements both creamy and tart accompaniments, making them perfect for brunches or dessert platters.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, cut Cherry Pie Bars into neat squares and stack them pyramid-style on a tiered cake stand. Tuck parchment liners between layers or wrap individual bars for a grab-and-go dessert at picnics and potlucks. You can even use them as a playful base for a build-your-own sundae bar!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Cherry Pie Bars fresh, store them layered between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making day-two bars extra delicious!

Freezing

Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then seal in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep perfectly for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying, and the glaze will remain glossy and intact.

Reheating

If you love your Cherry Pie Bars a little warm, reheat individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or pop the whole pan (covered with foil) in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. The filling will get gooey and the aroma will be irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cherry pie filling instead of canned?

Absolutely! Homemade filling gives you total control over sweetness and texture. If using homemade, make sure it’s cooled completely before layering over the base for the best results.

Is it possible to swap out the cherry pie filling for another flavor?

Yes, these bars are incredibly versatile! Try blueberry, apple, peach, or even raspberry pie filling for a new twist, following the exact same technique.

Can I make Cherry Pie Bars gluten-free?

You can substitute a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Just double-check other ingredients to be sure they’re certified gluten-free as needed.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

Watch for golden edges and a top that looks set. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out mostly clean, without wet batter clinging to it.

My glaze is too thick or thin. How can I fix it?

If your glaze is too thick, add milk a teaspoon at a time until it flows easily. If it’s too thin, whisk in a bit more powdered sugar until you reach your preferred consistency.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try these Cherry Pie Bars! They’re the kind of sweet treat people will ask you for again and again. Whether you make them for a summer picnic, holiday gathering, or just to brighten up a weekday, there’s something magical about that dreamy combination of tart cherries, buttery crust, and sweet almond glaze. Happy baking!