🍒 Cherry Pie Bars
Ingredients:
For the crust & topping:
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1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
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1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
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4 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1/4 tsp almond extract (optional, but delicious with cherries)
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 tsp salt
For the filling:
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1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
(or use homemade if you’re feeling fancy)
Optional glaze:
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1 cup powdered sugar
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1–2 tbsp milk
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1/4 tsp vanilla or almond extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven:
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Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
2. Make the batter:
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In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
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Mix in vanilla and almond extract.
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Stir in flour and salt just until combined.
3. Assemble the bars:
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Spread about 2/3 of the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
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Spoon the cherry pie filling over the batter, spreading gently.
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Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the filling — it won’t cover completely, and that’s okay!
4. Bake:
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Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean from the edges.
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Cool completely in the pan.
5. Glaze (optional):
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Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and extract until smooth.
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Drizzle over cooled bars before cutting.
✅ Tips:
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Swap cherry for blueberry or apple pie filling for variety.
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For a rustic look, sprinkle sliced almonds over the top before baking.
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These bars are even better the next day!
Want a gluten-free or small-batch version too?