These old-fashioned cherry bars are bursting with sweet cherry pie filling, buttery crust, and a simple vanilla glaze — the perfect make-ahead treat for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you need a crowd-pleaser!
⏱️ Time & Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour
- Servings: 24 bars
- Calories per Serving: ~280 kcal
🛒 Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs 🥚
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional, but incredible)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Filling
- 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling 🍒
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 10×15 inch sheet pan with parchment paper or foil.
2️⃣ Make the Dough
Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time. Add vanilla and almond extracts. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt, then gradually mix into the butter mixture.
3️⃣ Layer the Base
Spread about 2/3 of the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
4️⃣ Add Cherry Filling
Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the dough layer.
5️⃣ Add the Topping
Drop the remaining dough in small spoonfuls over the top — it doesn’t need to cover every inch; the cherries should peek through!
6️⃣ Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely in the pan.
7️⃣ Drizzle the Glaze
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bars, then let set before cutting into squares.
💛 Why You’ll Love This
- Feeds a crowd with ease
- Made with pantry staples and pie filling
- Buttery, tender crust that melts in your mouth
- Easy to make, slice, and transport
- Perfect for holidays, bake sales, or Sunday dessert tables
💡 Helpful Tips
- Use blueberry or apple pie filling for a fun twist
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for crunch
- Almond extract takes this to the next level of flavor
- For extra decadence, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
Leave a Reply