Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic cherry pie, offering the same tantalizing flavors in a convenient, easy-to-serve bar form. These bars are perfect for picnics, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress with a sweet treat. Originating as a variation of the traditional pie, Cherry Pie Bars bring the rich, tart flavor of cherries to a new level of convenience and portability. The combination of a buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and crumbly topping makes for an irresistible dessert that has been a favorite for generations. The convenience of Cherry Pie Bars, coupled with their delicious taste and ease of preparation, makes them a staple in many kitchens. For more on the nutritional benefits of cherries, you can check out this resource. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe and learn how to make these delightful Cherry Pie Bars from scratch.
Ingredients for Cherry Pie Bars
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 (21-ounce) can cherry pie filling
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions for Making Cherry Pie Bars
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture and mix until just combined.
- Spread about 2/3 of the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cherry pie filling and almond extract, then spread this mixture over the batter in the pan.
- Drop the remaining batter by spoonfuls over the cherry layer.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before cutting into bars. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Nutritional Information
Cherry Pie Bars are not only a delightful treat but also offer some nutritional benefits. Cherries are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help reduce muscle soreness and improve sleep quality. One serving of these bars (assuming the recipe makes about 24 bars) contains approximately 150 calories, 7 grams of fat, 21 grams of carbohydrates, and 1 gram of protein. Of course, these values can vary depending on the exact ingredients used and the size of the bars. It’s important to enjoy these bars in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake. For detailed nutritional information on cherries and other ingredients, consider visiting USDA’s FoodData Central. Enjoying Cherry Pie Bars as part of a balanced diet can be a delicious way to indulge without overdoing it.
Cooking Tips and Variations
Making the perfect Cherry Pie Bars involves a few tips and tricks to ensure the best results. First, be sure to use softened butter to achieve a creamy batter consistency. If you prefer a thicker crust, you can add a bit more flour to the batter. For a more intense cherry flavor, consider adding a dash of cherry extract along with the almond extract. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the crust or topping for an added texture and flavor. For those who want a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Remember that cooling the bars completely before cutting is crucial to ensure clean slices. These variations can help you customize the bars to your liking, making them a versatile dessert for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry Pie Bars are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. They make a fantastic dessert option for parties, picnics, and family gatherings, thanks to their easy-to-handle bar form. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. For a more elegant presentation, drizzle a bit of melted white chocolate over the top before serving. These bars also pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them an ideal afternoon snack. For festive occasions, consider dusting them with a touch of powdered sugar and garnishing with fresh cherries. No matter how you choose to serve them, Cherry Pie Bars are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned filling?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries. You’ll need to cook them down with some sugar and cornstarch to create a similar consistency to canned filling.
Can these bars be frozen?
Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
What can I use instead of almond extract?
If you don’t have almond extract, you can use vanilla extract or leave it out entirely for a milder flavor.
Conclusion
Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of cherry pie with the convenience of a bar. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying them as a treat at home, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Try this recipe today and experience the deliciousness of Cherry Pie Bars for yourself. Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family! Happy baking!
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