Cherry Pie Bar Recipe

If you’re as crazy about cherry desserts as I am, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Cherry Pie Bar Recipe. Imagine the tangy sweetness of cherry pie filling sandwiched between a buttery, golden crust and a moist cake-like batter — all baked into easy-to-cut bars perfect for sharing (or not!). Trust me, this recipe has become my go-to when I want all the cozy flavors of cherry pie without the fuss of rolling out pie dough. And honestly? These bars disappear faster than I can slice them. Stick with me, and I’ll show you how to nail them every single time!

this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Cherry Pie Bar Recipe calls for ingredients that you probably already have on hand, which makes this a breeze. Each element plays its part to create that perfect harmony of flavors and textures — from the butter that gives richness to the batter, to the almond extract that adds a subtle, unexpected twist.

• Unsalted butter: Softened and creamed to create a tender, rich base — be sure it’s room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens without overpowering; helps create that light crumb in the bars.
• Eggs: Provide structure and moisture, making the bars soft but cohesive.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warm, familiar flavor that pairs perfectly with cherries.
• Almond extract: Just a dash elevates this recipe with a delicate, nutty aroma — don’t skip it!
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the batter, giving it body and structure.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
• Cherry pie filling: The star of the show — opt for good-quality filling with whole cherries for that authentic pie taste.
• Powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates that smooth, sweet finish that’s easy to drizzle.
• Milk (for glaze): Thins the glaze for perfect drizzling consistency.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love how this Cherry Pie Bar Recipe is basically a blank canvas for your creativity. Sometimes I swap the cherry filling for blueberry when I want a twist, or add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm spice note. And if you’re watching sugar, you can try a reduced-sugar pie filling or substitute some granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor. Let your kitchen vibes guide you!

• Variation: One time, I added chopped toasted pecans on top before baking, and it brought a delightful crunch that everyone loved.
• Dietary tweak: Use gluten-free flour blend if needed, though I recommend keeping the texture in check by adding a bit of xanthan gum.
• Seasonal twist: Swap cherry pie filling for mixed berry or apple to keep it fresh all year round.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Cherry Pie Bar Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Cream the Base

First things first: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and give your 9×13-inch pan a good spray with pan spray or line it with parchment. Then, grab a large mixing bowl and cream together that room-temp butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy — this usually takes me about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer. This step is key because it sets the texture for the bars. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time to make sure they fully incorporate, then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts. That almond extract is like magic here — just a little goes a long way!

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix

In a separate bowl, whisk your flour and salt together so it’s evenly distributed. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet batter, mixing just until everything comes together (don’t overmix or you’ll get tough bars). The batter will be somewhat thick, almost like cookie dough but softer.

Step 3: Layer and Add Cherry Filling

Spread about 3 cups of the batter evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan — I find it easiest to use an offset spatula or wet hands to get it smooth without too much mess. Then, spoon the cherry pie filling on top, spreading it out as evenly as you can but leaving some of those gorgeous whole cherries visible.

Step 4: Dot Remaining Batter and Bake

Now, here’s a little trick: drop the remaining batter in small dollops over the cherry layer instead of trying to spread it out. These dollops will bake down and create those delightful peaks and valleys in the bars — it looks rustic and gorgeous. Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a light golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the batter (avoiding the cherry filling) comes out clean.

Step 5: Glaze and Cool

While the bars cool completely, whisk together your powdered sugar, vanilla, almond extract, and milk to make a simple glaze. Once the bars are cool, drizzle the glaze in thin streams across the top for that extra touch of sweetness and pretty finish. I usually use a fork or a small spoon for a light drizzle. Then slice into squares and prepare to be adored by whoever you share them with.

How to Serve Cherry Pie Bar Recipe

Garnishes

I love to top these cherry pie bars with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream just before serving—instant game-changer! Fresh cherries or a light sprinkle of chopped toasted almonds also add a lovely visual and textural boost. It’s all about the little details that make anyone feel like they’re eating a special treat.

Side Dishes

Because these bars are quite rich and sweet, I usually pair them with something light and fresh. A simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette works surprisingly well if you’re serving them as part of a brunch or lunch spread. At family gatherings, I often set them alongside a cheese plate and some salted nuts for a balanced sweet-savory highlight.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays or special occasions, I like to cut the bars into mini squares and arrange them on a tiered dessert stand. You can also dust lightly with powdered sugar and add edible flowers or small sprigs of fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch. It’s amazing how a simple presentation upgrade makes everyone’s eyes light up.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which I bet you will), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. I prefer refrigeration because it extends freshness, plus I love the bars chilled – they’re easier to slice that way, too.

Freezing

I have frozen these cherry pie bars both before and after glazing, wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When frozen like this, they keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge, and then bring to room temp or warm slightly before serving.

Reheating

To enjoy them warm, I pop individual bars in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or reheat gently in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5-10 minutes. Just watch the glaze—it can soften or melt, which isn’t a bad thing if you like it melty!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Pie Bar Recipe is one of those comforting desserts that feel like a warm hug — both nostalgic and easy-going. I love how approachable it is, especially for anyone who’s a little intimidated by traditional pies. Give it a try, and I promise these bars will become a staple in your dessert rotation. Baking is more fun when you share, but let me be honest, I’ve kept many of these just for myself! So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s make something really special today.

Print