Cherry Pie Bars: A Delicious Treat for Cherry Lovers
Introduction
If you are a fan of cherries and love a good pie, then you are in for a treat with this recipe for Cherry Pie Bars. These delectable bars combine the flavors of a classic cherry pie with the convenience of a handheld dessert. They are perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home.
In this article, we will go through the ingredients, steps, variations, tips, and answer some frequently asked questions to help you make the best Cherry Pie Bars possible.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the cherry filling:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
For the streusel topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Steps
Step 1: Preparing the crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt for the crust. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Making the cherry filling
In a saucepan, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the cherries release their juices. Remove from heat and stir in the almond extract.
Spread the cherry filling over the partially baked crust, making sure it is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Creating the streusel topping
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and granulated sugar for the streusel topping. Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Sprinkle the streusel topping over the cherry filling, covering it completely.
Step 4: Baking the Cherry Pie Bars
Place the baking dish back into the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the streusel topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling.
Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before cutting into bars.
Variations
While the classic Cherry Pie Bars are delicious on their own, you can also experiment with different variations to suit your taste.
1. Almond Crumble:
Add a handful of sliced almonds to the streusel topping mixture for an extra crunch and a hint of almond flavor.
2. Chocolate Drizzle:
Melt some chocolate chips and drizzle it over the cooled Cherry Pie Bars for a decadent twist.
3. Lemon Glaze:
Whisk together some powdered sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of lemon zest to create a tangy glaze. Drizzle it over the bars for a refreshing burst of citrus flavor.
Tips
- Make sure to let the bars cool completely before cutting into them. This will help them set and hold their shape.
- If using frozen cherries, make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using in the recipe.
- For an extra burst of flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the crust mixture.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed chilled or brought back to room temperature before serving.
Conclusion
Cherry Pie Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the sweet and tart flavors of cherries with a buttery crust and a crunchy streusel topping. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress.
So next time you have a craving for a cherry pie but want something more convenient, give these Cherry Pie Bars a try. They are easy to make, delicious to eat, and guaranteed to satisfy your cherry cravings.
FAQs
Q: Can I use canned cherries instead of fresh or frozen ones?
A: Yes, you can use canned cherries for this recipe. Make sure to drain them well before using and adjust the amount of sugar accordingly, as canned cherries are often packed in syrup.
Q: Can I freeze Cherry Pie Bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze Cherry Pie Bars for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I use a different fruit for the filling?
A: Absolutely! While cherries are the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or even a combination of different fruits.
Q: Can I use a different type of flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend if you prefer.
Enjoy your homemade Cherry Pie Bars and indulge in the delightful combination of cherries and buttery goodness!
