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🔪 How to Make Cherry Pie Bars
Step 1: Prep the Oven & Pan
Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
Line a 9×9″ or 8×11″ baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Crust & Base
Mix flour, sugar, butter, and salt in a bowl until crumbly with clumps.
Press half the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan.
Step 3: Prepare the Cherry Layer
Toss cherries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla, and salt.
Evenly spread the cherry mixture over the crust.
Step 4: Add the Crumble Topping
Sprinkle the remaining crust mixture over the cherries.
No need to press — it will crisp up beautifully while baking.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 35–40 minutes until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Cool completely before slicing. For clean bars, chill in the fridge for at least an hour.
🧑🍳 Foolproof Tips for Perfect Bars
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Cold butter is key for that flaky, shortbread texture
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Don’t skip the cornstarch — it thickens the filling so your bars hold up
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Chill before cutting for clean slices
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Add almond extract for an extra cherry punch
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Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Pro tip: These freeze beautifully, so make a double batch!
🎨 Fun Variations to Try
Get creative with these twists:
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Top with sliced almonds for a nutty crunch
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Drizzle melted dark chocolate over cooled bars
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Swirl in cream cheese before baking for richness
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Use gluten-free flour for a celiac-friendly option
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Sprinkle sea salt flakes post-bake for a gourmet finish
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Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence
🥳 Where to Bring Cherry Pie Bars (Basically, Everywhere)
These are crowd-pleasers that travel well and look great on any table:
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Potlucks & BBQs: Portable and easy to serve
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Picnics: No forks, no mess
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Family dinners: Kids and adults love them
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Holiday spreads: Bright, festive, and easy to prep ahead
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Lunchbox treats or road trips: They hold up like a dream
And if you’ve got little ones around, let them help! Pressing the base or sprinkling the crumble is kid-friendly and fun.
🍽 Final Thoughts: Sometimes, Pie Tastes Better in Bars
Cherry pie bars aren’t just easier — they might just be better.
You get the flavor of homemade cherry pie, minus the fuss. Every bite delivers that buttery crust, sweet-tart cherry filling, and golden crumb topping in one delicious square.
So skip the pie dish next time. Grab a tray and get baking.
Because dessert should be easy, shareable, and unforgettable — just like these cherry pie bars.