4. Assemble the Bars
- Spread the cherry filling evenly over the pressed crust.
- Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the top for a buttery, crumbly finish.
5. Bake the Bars
- Bake for 35–45 minutes, depending on the size of your pan:
- For an 8x8-inch pan: Bake for 40–45 minutes.
- For a 9x13-inch pan: Bake for 35–40 minutes.
- The bars are done when the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly around the edges.
6. Cool and Slice
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack (about 1–2 hours). This allows the filling to set.
- Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan, then slice into squares or rectangles.
Serving Suggestions
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- For Breakfast: Enjoy a small square as a sweet morning snack with coffee or tea.
- At Gatherings: Cut into bite-sized pieces for a crowd-pleasing dessert at parties or picnics.
- Gift-Worthy: Package in decorative tins or boxes for a homemade gift that’s sure to impress.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Cherries: Pit them easily with a cherry pitter or by slicing around the pit with a paring knife.
- Thicken Correctly: Cornstarch works best for thickening the filling—if substituting with flour, use 2x the amount.
- Prevent Sogginess: If using frozen cherries, pat them dry after thawing to remove excess moisture.
- Make Ahead: Store baked bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
These Cherry Pie Bars are the ultimate dessert for cherry lovers—a sweet, tangy, and buttery treat that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something delicious, these bars are sure to be a hit.
So grab your cherries, mix up that crumbly crust, and bake up this irresistible dessert. One bite of these sweet-and-tangy bars, and you’ll feel like you’re savoring a slice of summer sunshine—no matter the season! 🍒🍰
