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These delightful Cherry Pie Bars transform traditional pie into something special yet achievable. The combination of juicy cherries nestled between buttery shortbread layers, all topped with a sweet almond glaze, creates an irresistible treat that's perfect for sharing. I've been baking these for family gatherings for years, and they never fail to disappear quickly.
Last weekend, I made these for a neighborhood block party. Three different families asked for the recipe before the evening was over. My secret? A touch of almond extract that makes the cherry flavor absolutely shine.
Essential Ingredients
- Cherry pie filling (2 21-oz cans): Splurge on the premium brands; you'll taste the difference
- Real butter at room temperature: The flavor foundation of our shortbread crust
- Pure almond extract: Creates that bakery-style magic with the cherries
- Fresh eggs at room temperature: Key for that perfect dough texture
- Quality vanilla: Adds warmth to both the crust and glaze
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Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare Your Base: Start with room-temperature butter - this is crucial. Beat it with sugar until it's light and fluffy, about 5-7 minutes. Don't rush this step; it creates that perfect shortbread texture. Mix in your eggs one at a time, scraping down the bowl between each.
Build Your Layers: Take about three cups of the dough and spread it evenly in your pan. Pour those gorgeous cherries over top, then drop the remaining dough in small dollops. Don't worry about covering everything - the dough spreads as it bakes.
Perfect the Bake: Pop it in a 350°F oven and let the magic happen. Around 35-40 minutes usually does it. You're looking for golden brown edges and slightly darker spots on top. Trust your nose - when the buttery shortbread aroma fills your kitchen, it's nearly done.
Add the Finishing Touch: Once completely cool, drizzle with that heavenly almond-vanilla glaze. I like making the glaze just thick enough to hold its shape but still flow smoothly off the spoon.
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Make-Ahead Magic
These bars actually taste better the next day. The flavors meld together overnight, and the texture gets even more perfect. They'll keep at room temperature for three days, or freeze beautifully for up to two months.
My family's been making these bars for every holiday gathering since I can remember. The recipe came from my grandmother, who always said the secret was in the almond extract. She'd make a double batch - one for sharing, one for us to keep hidden away in the kitchen.
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These bars have become my signature potluck contribution. There's something about the combination of buttery crust, juicy cherries, and sweet glaze that brings people together. Nothing makes me happier than watching someone's face light up with their first bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different pie filling?
- Yes! Apple, blueberry, or any other fruit pie filling works great in this recipe.
- → Why do ingredients need to be room temperature?
- Room temperature eggs blend better with the butter and create a smoother dough.
- → Can I freeze these bars?
- Yes, freeze without glaze for up to 3 months. Thaw and add glaze before serving.
- → How do I store these?
- Store in airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- → Can I skip the almond extract?
- Yes, though it enhances the cherry flavor. You can use all vanilla extract instead.