Introduction to Glazed Cherry Pie Bars
Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s as easy to whip up as it is to devour, then these Glazed Cherry Pie Bars are just what you need. Picture this: a buttery crust cradling sweet cherry filling, all topped with a smooth glaze that makes your taste buds dance. Whether you’re in a rush or want to impress your loved ones, this recipe is a quick solution for a busy day. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Glazed Cherry Pie Bars
These Glazed Cherry Pie Bars are a game-changer in the dessert world! They’re incredibly easy to make, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying life. The sweet cherry filling paired with that buttery crust is a flavor explosion. Plus, they’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again!
Ingredients for Glazed Cherry Pie Bars
Let’s gather our ingredients for these scrumptious Glazed Cherry Pie Bars. Each component plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Unsalted butter: This is the foundation of our buttery crust. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetness is key! It helps create that delightful contrast with the tart cherry filling.
- Large eggs: They add moisture and richness, binding everything together beautifully.
- Vanilla extract: A classic flavor enhancer that brings warmth to the bars.
- Almond extract (optional): This little gem adds a nutty depth. I highly recommend it for an extra flavor kick!
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of our batter, giving it structure and a lovely crumb.
- Salt: Just a pinch! It balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Cherry pie filling: You can use canned or homemade. Either way, it’s the star of the show!
- Powdered sugar: This is for our glaze, giving it that sweet, smooth finish.
- Milk or cream: Just a splash to achieve the perfect glaze consistency.
- Additional vanilla extract: A touch more for the glaze, ensuring every bite is deliciously sweet.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Now, let’s get cooking!
How to Make Glazed Cherry Pie Bars
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these Glazed Cherry Pie Bars! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious dessert that will impress everyone.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While the oven warms up, grab a 15×10-inch baking pan and grease it well. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself when it’s time to cut those bars!
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This process is essential for achieving that perfect texture. It incorporates air into the mixture, making your bars tender and delightful. Don’t rush this step; take your time to get it just right!
Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts
Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to create a smooth batter. Then, mix in the vanilla and almond extracts. The extracts are like the secret agents of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your Glazed Cherry Pie Bars. You’ll love the aroma that fills your kitchen!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want to keep that lovely texture. The flour is what gives our bars structure, so make sure it’s evenly distributed!
Step 5: Layer the Batter and Cherry Filling
Now comes the fun part! Spread about 3 cups of the batter evenly in the bottom of your prepared pan. Then, spoon the cherry pie filling over the batter, spreading it out gently. Finally, drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the filling to create a marbled look. This not only looks beautiful but also ensures every bite is a delightful mix of flavors!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop your pan into the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the crust. If it comes out clean, you’re good to go! Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Cooling is key; it helps the bars set up nicely.
Step 7: Drizzle the Glaze
While your bars are cooling, let’s make the glaze! In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla extract until smooth. Once the bars are cool, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. This finishing touch adds a sweet, glossy finish that makes these Glazed Cherry Pie Bars irresistible!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your butter is softened for easy creaming.
- Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps the bars set properly.
- Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean.
- Feel free to experiment with different fruit fillings for variety.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Equipment Needed
- Baking pan: A 15×10-inch pan works best, but a 9×13-inch pan is a great alternative for thicker bars.
- Mixing bowls: Use a large bowl for mixing and a smaller one for the glaze.
- Whisk: Essential for blending ingredients smoothly; a fork can work in a pinch.
- Spatula: Perfect for spreading batter and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
- Cooling rack: Helps cool the bars evenly; a plate can substitute if needed.
Variations
- Berry Medley: Swap out the cherry filling for a mix of blueberries and raspberries for a delightful twist.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the glaze for a rich, decadent touch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Nutty Addition: Fold in some chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, into the batter for added crunch and flavor.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries.
Serving Suggestions
- Ice Cream: Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a light, airy touch.
- Fresh Cherries: Garnish with fresh cherries for a pop of color and flavor.
- Tea or Coffee: Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Presentation: Cut into neat squares and arrange on a decorative platter for a beautiful display.
FAQs about Glazed Cherry Pie Bars
Got questions about these delightful Glazed Cherry Pie Bars? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that might pop up as you embark on this sweet adventure.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be used, but you’ll need to cook them down with some sugar and cornstarch to create a filling-like consistency. It’s a delicious option if you have fresh cherries on hand!
How do I store leftover bars?
Store your Glazed Cherry Pie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to five days. Just make sure they’re covered to keep them fresh!
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
What can I substitute for almond extract?
If you’re not a fan of almond extract, you can simply omit it or replace it with an equal amount of vanilla extract. You could also try a splash of coconut extract for a tropical twist!
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Definitely! These Glazed Cherry Pie Bars can be made a day in advance. Just store them covered at room temperature, and they’ll be ready to impress your guests when you are!
Final Thoughts
Making these Glazed Cherry Pie Bars is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in your kitchen. The joy of pulling a warm batch from the oven, the aroma wafting through your home, and the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they take that first bite are truly priceless. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them solo with a cup of coffee, these bars bring a little slice of happiness to any day. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delightful recipe—you won’t regret it!
Print
Glazed Cherry Pie Bars: Discover This Delightful Recipe!
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make glazed cherry pie bars with a buttery crust and sweet cherry filling, topped with a smooth glaze.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½–1 tsp almond extract (optional, but highly recommended)
- 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 cans (21 oz each / ~600 g) cherry pie filling (or 4 cups homemade cherry filling)
- 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk or cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and line a 15×10-inch baking pan (or use a 9×13-inch pan for thicker bars).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
- Mix in vanilla and almond extract.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing just until combined.
- Spread about 3 cups of the batter evenly in the bottom of the pan.
- Spoon cherry pie filling evenly over the batter.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the filling to create a marbled look.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the crust comes out clean.
- Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth and drizzle generously over the cooled bars.
- Slice into squares or bars and serve.
- Store at room temperature (covered) for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Notes
- For a thicker bar, use a 9×13-inch pan.
- Feel free to adjust the almond extract to your taste.
- These bars can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
