These Cherry Pie Bars are the perfect combination of a buttery shortbread-like crust, sweet and tangy cherry filling, and a light vanilla glaze. They’re easier to make than a traditional cherry pie but just as delicious—great for gatherings, holidays, or a sweet treat anytime!
Hungry for more? Subscribe now and have this recipe sent directly to your inbox—along with exclusive foodie updates!
Ingredients
For the Crust & Topping:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
For the Vanilla Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust & Topping:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract and almond extract.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until combined.
2. Assemble the Bars:
- Spread ⅔ of the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the cherry pie filling over the crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Drop the remaining dough by spoonfuls over the cherry filling.
3. Bake:
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before adding the glaze.
4. Make the Vanilla Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cherry bars.
5. Slice and Serve:
- Cut into squares or bars and enjoy!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cuisine: American
Tips for Success
✔ Almond Extract Boost – Almond extract enhances the cherry flavor beautifully!
✔ Glaze Thickness – Adjust the glaze consistency with more or less milk.
✔ Fresh Cherries? – Use homemade cherry filling with fresh or frozen cherries.
✔ Make Ahead – These bars stay fresh for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
These Cherry Pie Bars are a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert that tastes just like homemade cherry pie but with half the effort!
Print
Cherry Pie Bars
- Total Time: 0 hours
Description
These Cherry Pie Bars are the perfect combination of a buttery shortbread-like crust, sweet and tangy cherry filling, and a light vanilla glaze. They’re easier to make than a traditional cherry pie but just as delicious—great for gatherings, holidays, or a sweet treat anytime!
Hungry for more? Subscribe now and have this recipe sent directly to your inbox—along with exclusive foodie updates!
Ingredients
For the Crust & Topping:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp almond extract (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
For the Vanilla Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust & Topping:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract and almond extract.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until combined.
2. Assemble the Bars:
- Spread ⅔ of the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the cherry pie filling over the crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Drop the remaining dough by spoonfuls over the cherry filling.
3. Bake:
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before adding the glaze.
4. Make the Vanilla Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cherry bars.
5. Slice and Serve:
- Cut into squares or bars and enjoy!
Notes
Almond Extract Boost – Almond extract enhances the cherry flavor beautifully!
Glaze Thickness – Adjust the glaze consistency with more or less milk.
Fresh Cherries? – Use homemade cherry filling with fresh or frozen cherries.
Make Ahead – These bars stay fresh for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Cuisine: American
