Step 3: Form the Crust
Reserve about 1 cup of the dough for the topping. Press the remaining dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a sturdy, even base. Bake this crust in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until it just begins to set. Remove from the oven but leave it warm.
Step 4: Add the Cherry Filling
Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the partially baked crust. Make sure the layer is consistent but not too thick—it should complement the crumbly base without overpowering it.
Step 5: Top with Crumbly Dough
Crumble the reserved dough over the cherry filling. You can sprinkle it generously for a rustic look, leaving some filling peeking through. Optionally, add slivered almonds on top for an extra crunch.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly around the edges.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack—this ensures the cherry filling sets slightly and makes cutting easier. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into squares or rectangles. For a finishing touch, dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Cherry Pie Bars
- Fresh or Frozen Cherries: If using fresh or frozen cherries, cook them briefly with sugar and cornstarch to thicken the filling before using.
- Chill the Dough: For a sturdier topping, chill the reserved dough in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes before crumbling it over the filling.
- Serving Ideas: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with white chocolate for a decadent twist.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Cherry Pie Bars are more than just a dessert—they’re a portable, easy-to-make treat that captures the classic flavors of a homemade cherry pie. Soft, buttery, and bursting with sweet-tart cherries, they’re perfect for any occasion and guaranteed to impress friends and family.
If you want, I can also create a visual step-by-step guide with images showing each stage of making these Cherry Pie Bars—it makes the recipe much easier to follow, especially for beginners. Do you want me to do that?
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