Cherry Pie Bars Recipe

Cherry Pie Bars (From Scratch): A Slice of Homemade Comfort

Who doesn’t love a good cherry pie? It’s the perfect blend of sweet and tart, all wrapped up in a buttery, flaky crust. But let’s face it, making a traditional pie can be time-consuming and sometimes daunting. Enter Cherry Pie Bars—a delightful alternative that captures all the flavors of classic cherry pie without the fuss of a homemade crust. These bars are ideal for potlucks, picnics, or just a cozy treat at home. Let’s dive into how to make these scrumptious bars from scratch, complete with a luscious cherry filling and a crispy crumble topping.

The Inspiration Behind Cherry Pie Bars

Cherry Pie Bars are inspired by the classic American cherry pie, a staple in many households. The bars offer a more convenient way to enjoy this beloved dessert. They are easy to make, transport, and share, making them perfect for gatherings. By using frozen sour cherries, you can enjoy these bars year-round, even when cherries are out of season.

Ingredients Breakdown

Crust and Topping

• All-Purpose Flour (1 1/2 cups/188g): The foundation of our crust and topping, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• Old-Fashioned Whole Rolled Oats (1 cup/85g + 2 tablespoons/11g): Adds a chewy texture and a hint of nuttiness.
• Packed Light or Dark Brown Sugar (1/2 cup/100g): Sweetens the crust and topping while contributing to their moistness.
• Baking Powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the crust rise slightly, ensuring it isn’t too dense.
• Lemon Zest (1 teaspoon): Infuses the crust with a subtle citrus aroma that complements the cherries.
• Salt (1/8 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor by balancing the sweetness.
• Unsalted Butter (10 tablespoons/142g, melted): Binds the dry ingredients together, creating a rich and flavorful base.
• Pure Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the crust and topping.

Cherry Filling

• Cornstarch (1 1/2 tablespoons/11g): Thickens the cherry filling to a perfect consistency.
• Frozen Sour Cherries (3 1/2 cups/525g): The star of the show, providing a tart and juicy filling.
• Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup/100g): Sweetens the cherries, balancing their natural tartness.
• Fresh Lemon Juice (1 teaspoon): Enhances the cherries’ flavor and adds a touch of brightness.
• Almond Extract (1/4 teaspoon): Complements the cherries with a subtle nutty flavor.

Almond Icing (Optional)

• Confectioners’ Sugar (1 cup/120g): The base of our icing, providing sweetness and a smooth texture.
• Milk (2 tablespoons/30ml): Thins the icing to the desired consistency.
• Almond Extract (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a delicate almond flavor that pairs beautifully with the cherry filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the bars later.

2. Make the Crust

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, 1 cup of oats, brown sugar, baking powder, lemon zest, and salt. Add the melted butter and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture resembles moist, crumbly sand. Press two-thirds of this mixture into the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Cherry Filling

While the crust is baking, place the cornstarch in a small bowl and set it aside. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cherries release their juices (about 4-6 minutes). Remove a couple of spoonfuls of the juice and mix with the cornstarch until dissolved. Stir this mixture back into the cherry filling and bring to a boil. Cook until the filling thickens, about 10 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the almond extract.

4. Assemble the Bars

Pour the cherry filling over the warm crust, spreading it evenly. Stir the remaining 2 tablespoons of oats into the reserved crust mixture and sprinkle it over the filling, pressing down lightly.

5. Bake

Bake the assembled bars for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

6. Add the Icing

If using, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. Drizzle the icing over the cooled bars.

7. Slice and Serve

Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and transfer them to a cutting board. Slice into squares with a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat squares. Enjoy your Cherry Pie Bars at room temperature or chilled.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Cherry Pie Bars can be stored at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to a week. They also freeze well—wrap the cooled bars tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Perfecting the Cherry Pie Bars: Tips and Variations

Making Cherry Pie Bars from scratch can be a fun and rewarding experience. To help you achieve the best results, here are some tips and variations to consider:

Tips for Success

1. Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale to measure the flour and other ingredients precisely. This ensures the right texture for both the crust and the filling.
2. Cold Butter: If your melted butter cools and starts to solidify before you mix it with the dry ingredients, warm it slightly to ensure it integrates smoothly.
3. Cornstarch Mixture: When combining the cornstarch with the cherry juice, make sure it is completely dissolved to avoid lumps in the filling.
4. Even Layering: When spreading the cherry filling over the crust, ensure it is even to prevent any spots from being too thick or too thin, which can affect baking time.
5. Cooling Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly, making them easier to slice and ensuring the filling holds together.

Variations to Explore

1. Different Fruits: While sour cherries are traditional, you can experiment with other fruits. Blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries would make delightful alternatives.
2. Nutty Additions: For added crunch and flavor, mix some chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts into the crumble topping.
3. Spiced Filling: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cherry filling for a warm, spiced twist.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste or texture.
5. Vegan Adaptation: Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy milk for the icing to make vegan-friendly Cherry Pie Bars.

Serving Suggestions

Cherry Pie Bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

1. Alone: Enjoy the bars on their own for a delightful treat.
2. With Ice Cream: Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.
3. Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the dense, fruity bars.
4. Yogurt: Pair a bar with a serving of Greek yogurt for a balanced breakfast or snack.

Cherry Pie Bars: A Nostalgic Treat with Modern Ease

Cherry Pie Bars capture the essence of traditional cherry pie in a more accessible and shareable form. The combination of a buttery crust, tart cherry filling, and crunchy topping creates a dessert that’s both nostalgic and innovative. These bars are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual afternoons.

Cherry Pie in American Culture

Cherry pie has deep roots in American culture, often associated with celebrations like Independence Day and Thanksgiving. Its vibrant red filling and flaky crust make it a visually appealing and delicious centerpiece. By transforming this classic pie into bar form, we preserve its essence while making it more convenient for modern lifestyles.

The Joy of Homemade Baking

There’s something deeply satisfying about baking from scratch. It connects us to traditions, allows us to control ingredients, and fills our homes with delightful aromas. Cherry Pie Bars are a testament to the joy of homemade baking—they’re a labor of love that brings smiles to faces and warmth to hearts.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this recipe is designed to be approachable and rewarding. The step-by-step instructions guide you through each stage, ensuring you achieve delicious results every time. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of Cherry Pie Bars that will become a new family favorite.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Pie Bars from scratch offer a delectable twist on a classic dessert, making it easier to enjoy the flavors of cherry pie any time of year. With a perfect balance of sweet and tart, combined with a buttery crust and crunchy topping, these bars are sure to delight. Try this recipe today and savor the deliciousness of homemade Cherry Pie Bars with every bite.