Cherry Pie Bars – A Dreamy Dessert You’ll Want to Make Again and Again

If you’re searching for a dessert that combines home-baked comfort with irresistible fruit-filled sweetness, these Cherry Pie Bars are your new go-to recipe. Imagine a soft, buttery bar that tastes like a cross between a classic cherry pie and a sugar cookie — rich, tender, and overflowing with juicy cherry filling. This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a dessert that is not only visually stunning but also unbelievably delicious. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, attending a potluck, or simply craving something sweet, these bars deliver every single time.

What makes this dessert especially lovable is its effortless preparation. No fussing with pie crusts — just mix, layer, bake, and drizzle with a silky vanilla-almond glaze that elevates every bite. With a golden base, a vibrant cherry center, and a shimmering glaze, this recipe is a showstopper from the first glance to the last crumb.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1 cup butter, softened – Provides richness, moisture, and the tender crumb that makes these bars melt-in-your-mouth.
• 1 3/4 cups sugar – Sweetens the dough and helps create a light, soft texture.
• 4 large eggs – Adds structure, moisture, and ensures the bars bake evenly.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract – Pairs perfectly with cherry, giving the dessert its signature bakery-style aroma.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the sturdy yet tender base of the bars.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.

For the Filling

• 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling – Provides the vibrant, juicy, sweet-tart center that makes these bars irresistible.

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar – Creates a smooth, sweet, pourable glaze.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warm sweetness to the topping.
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract – Deepens the cherry-friendly flavor profile.
• 2 tablespoons milk – Thins the glaze to a silky drizzling consistency.

Preparation Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15×10-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Make the dough:
   In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
   Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
   Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a smooth, thick batter forms.
3. Assemble the bars:
   Spread about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
   Spoon the cherry pie filling over the dough, spreading it out to create an even layer.
   Drop small spoonfuls of the remaining dough across the top — they will spread while baking to form a beautiful, rustic pattern.
4. Bake:
   Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes or until the top is lightly golden and the edges are set.
   Allow the bars to cool completely before glazing.
5. Prepare the glaze:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and milk until smooth.
   Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled bars.
6. Slice and serve:
   Cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy the perfect blend of buttery crust, cherry filling, and sweet glaze.

Why This Recipe Is Loved

• Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
• No complicated steps — great for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
• Perfectly balanced flavors with buttery dough, sweet cherries, and aromatic glaze.
• Feeds a crowd and is ideal for holidays, parties, and potlucks.
• Portable and easy to store — they stay soft and delicious for days.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cherry Pie Bars

• Use room-temperature butter and eggs for a smoother batter.
• Don’t overmix once the flour is added — this keeps the bars tender.
• For extra richness, add a light sprinkle of coarse sugar before baking.
• Want more fruit? Add an extra half-can of cherry pie filling.
• Let the bars cool completely before glazing to avoid melting the topping.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream for a lighter, creamy finish.
• Pair with hot coffee or cold milk for a classic match.

Conclusion

These Cherry Pie Bars are the perfect dessert for anyone craving something sweet, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. With their buttery base, fruity center, and silky glaze, they offer all the nostalgic goodness of homemade cherry pie without the hassle of rolling dough. This recipe is simple, crowd-pleasing, and bursting with flavor — a dessert you’ll return to again and again. Make them once, and they’ll become a family favorite.