Here’s a soft, buttery, bakery-style Cherry Pie Bars recipe that’s perfect for a tray bake and super easy to slice and serve
The Most Delicious Cherry Pie Bars
Ingredients
For the crust & topping:
1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
For the filling:
2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
(or homemade cherry filling if preferred)
For the glaze (optional but recommended):
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk
½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Make the Dough
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time.
Mix in vanilla.
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until combined.
Layer the Bars
Spread about 3 cups of the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Spread cherry pie filling evenly over the base.
Drop spoonfuls of remaining batter over the cherries (it doesn’t have to cover completely).
Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
Cool completely before glazing.
Add Glaze
Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Drizzle over cooled bars.
Let glaze set before slicing.
Tips for Extra Flavor
Add ½ tsp almond extract to the batter for a bakery-style flavor.
Sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking.
Use a homemade cherry filling for even richer taste.