“These bars are simply delicious! I make them every year for my birthday using cherry pie filling. They’re a real crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and serve!”

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and softened butter. Mix until the dough comes together and resembles a soft, sticky dough. You can use a stand mixer, a hand mixer, or mix it by hand.

Once the dough is ready, press about two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s spread evenly to form the base of your bars. Use a spoon or your hands to press it down firmly.

Step 3: Add the Cherry Filling

Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the crust. If you prefer a thicker filling, you can mix the cornstarch into the cherry pie filling before spreading it over the crust to help thicken the filling during baking.

Step 4: Add the Topping

Take the remaining dough and crumble it evenly over the cherry pie filling. It doesn’t need to be perfect—this crumbly topping will bake up golden and delicious.

Step 5: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares. The filling will set as they cool, making them easier to cut and serve.

Once cooled, you can serve them as-is, or top them with a dusting of powdered sugar, a scoop of whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

Tips for the Perfect Cherry Pie Bars

• Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft or sticky to work with, you can chill it in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes before pressing it into the pan.
• Don’t Skip the Cooling: These bars slice much more neatly once they’ve cooled completely. It’s worth the wait for perfect squares!
• Make It Your Own: While cherry pie filling is my go-to, feel free to use any fruit pie filling you love. Blueberry, apple, or even strawberry pie filling would work great in this recipe.
• Add Extra Flavor: You can add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust for extra warmth, or even a handful of chopped nuts to the topping for added texture.

Why Cherry Pie Bars Are a Must-Make Dessert

These Cherry Pie Bars are not only delicious, but they are also incredibly easy to make. The combination of a buttery, flaky crust, sweet and tangy cherry filling, and a crumbly topping is irresistible. Plus, they’re a perfect treat to make ahead of time and serve at your next gathering or special occasion.

The best part? These bars are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds—and the recipe! They’re also versatile enough to be made with your favorite fruit pie filling, so you can change up the flavor depending on the season or your personal preference.

Stay Tuned for More Delicious Recipes!

If you enjoyed this Cherry Pie Bars recipe, don’t forget to come back for more easy and crowd-pleasing desserts that will make your gatherings even sweeter! I’m always sharing simple, delicious recipes that your family and friends will love.

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Thank you for following along, and happy baking! 🍒🎂