These Cherry Bars are a delightful twist on the classic dessert bar, offering a perfect balance of buttery cake and tangy cherry pie filling topped with a luscious glaze. The rich, creamy texture of the cake base, combined with the burst of cherry flavor in every bite, creates a dessert that is both comforting and exciting. The process of creaming together butter, sugar, and eggs forms a light, tender crumb that is enhanced by the subtle hints of vanilla and almond extracts. As the dough bakes to a golden perfection, it forms a sturdy layer that supports the generous spread of cherry pie filling. Every bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making these bars an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Imagine serving a plate of these Cherry Bars at your next gathering, where the aroma of freshly baked dessert fills the room and sparks conversations. The interplay of the soft cake, vibrant cherry filling, and sweet, smooth glaze creates a multi-dimensional flavor experience that is sure to impress. Whether you are enjoying them as an after-dinner treat or as a sweet snack during the day, these bars bring a touch of homemade charm to every bite. Their elegant presentation and delicious taste make them a perfect addition to any dessert table, offering both comfort and a hint of sophistication.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Irresistibly Delicious: A perfect harmony of buttery cake, tangy cherry filling, and sweet glaze that delights every palate.
• Simple to Make: With easy-to-follow steps and accessible ingredients, you can create a gourmet dessert at home.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a special family dessert, these bars are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cans (21 ounces each) cherry pie filling
For the Glaze:
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 to 3 tablespoons 2% milk
Detailed Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 15x10x1-inch baking pan to ensure easy release of the cake.
2. Make the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt until light and fluffy (about 5-7 minutes). Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, stirring until the batter is smooth and well combined.
3. Assemble the Bars: Spread 3 cups of the prepared dough evenly into the greased baking pan. Over the dough, spread the cherry pie filling evenly. Drop the remaining dough by teaspoonfuls over the filling, allowing some of the filling to peek through.
4. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cake comes out clean.
5. Cool: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack in the pan.
6. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix the confectioners’ sugar with vanilla and almond extracts. Gradually add 2 to 3 tablespoons of 2% milk until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Finish and Serve: Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled cherry bars. Allow the glaze to set before cutting the cake into squares. Serve and enjoy!
Tips
• Ensure all ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Do not overmix the flour to avoid a dense texture in the cake.
• Use a spatula to spread the cherry filling evenly over the cake layer for a uniform taste in every bite.
• Drizzle the glaze while the bars are completely cool to prevent it from melting into the cake.
Storage Options
• Refrigerator: Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: Enjoy these bars at room temperature for the best flavor and texture; if desired, you can gently warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Enjoy your homemade Cherry Bars as a delightful treat that is sure to please every crowd!
