Cherry Pie Bars

Cherry Pie Bars

Ingredients:

For the Crust and Topping:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Cherry Filling:

• 2 (21 oz) cans cherry pie filling
• 1 tsp almond extract (optional, enhances cherry flavor)

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
2. Prepare the Crust and Topping:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
   • Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the dough for the topping and set aside. Press the remaining dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
3. Prepare the Cherry Filling:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the cherry pie filling and almond extract (if using). Spread the cherry filling evenly over the crust in the baking dish.
4. Add the Topping:
   • Crumble the reserved dough over the cherry filling, covering as much of the surface as possible.
5. Bake the Bars:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the filling is bubbly. Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish.
6. Prepare the Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
7. Glaze the Bars:
   • Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cherry pie bars. Allow the glaze to set before cutting into squares.
8. Serve:
   • Once the glaze is set, cut the bars into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy!

These Cherry Pie Bars are perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful combination of a buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and a sweet glaze. Enjoy!