Homemade Cherry Pie Bars: A Fruity and Buttery Delight

Introduction:

Take the hassle out of pie-making with these Homemade Cherry Pie Bars. Combining a flaky, buttery crust, a sweet cherry filling, and a golden crumb topping, these bars pack all the deliciousness of cherry pie into an easy-to-make dessert. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or an afternoon treat, they’re a guaranteed hit!

Ingredients:

For the Crust and Topping:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cherry Filling:

• 4 cups fresh or canned cherries, pitted
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional for added depth)

Equipment:

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry cutter or fork

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it well.

Step 2: Make the Crust and Topping

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into two portions—about two-thirds for the crust and one-third for the topping.

Step 3: Prepare the Cherry Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Stir in almond extract, if desired, and set the filling aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

1. Press the larger portion of the dough evenly into the prepared pan to form the base.
2. Spread the cherry filling over the crust in an even layer.
3. Crumble the remaining dough over the cherry filling for a delightful topping.

Step 5: Bake

1. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling.
2. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Tips for Success:

• Cherries Matter: Fresh cherries give a vibrant, tangy flavor, but canned cherries work just as well for convenience.
• Keep the Butter Cold: Cold butter is essential for a flaky crust and crumb topping.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Why You’ll Love These Bars:

1. Easy to Make: A quick and simple way to enjoy the flavors of cherry pie without the effort of making a full pie.
2. Sweet and Tangy: The juicy cherry filling pairs perfectly with the buttery crust and topping.
3. Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to holiday celebrations.

Conclusion:

These Homemade Cherry Pie Bars are a must-try for anyone who loves fruity, buttery desserts. With their simple preparation and incredible flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Bake them today and enjoy the sweet taste of cherries in every bite!