The Delightful Cherry Pie Bars

Step 4: Assemble the Cherry Pie Bars

Layer the cherry filling: Once the crust has cooled slightly, spread the cherry filling evenly over the baked crust. If using fresh cherries, ensure the filling is well distributed.
Top with crumble: Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the cherry filling, making sure to cover as much of the filling as possible.
Bake the bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling slightly around the edges.
Cool: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. This will help the filling set and make it easier to cut into bars.

Step 5: Cut and Serve

Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares or rectangles.
Serve as-is or with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Tips for Perfect Cherry Pie Bars

Use fresh or frozen cherries: If you prefer a homemade filling, fresh or frozen cherries can give a more natural, tangy flavor compared to canned cherry pie filling. Just be sure to cook the filling until thickened before using it.
Make it ahead of time: These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature, or refrigerate them for longer shelf life.
Experiment with flavors: Add a little lemon zest to the filling for a refreshing citrus twist or sprinkle some chopped almonds over the crumble topping for extra texture and flavor.
Freeze for later: You can freeze the bars before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble everything as directed, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze. Bake from frozen for 35-40 minutes.

Conclusion

These cherry pie bars are an easy, delicious way to enjoy the flavors of a traditional cherry pie without the hassle of a double crust. The buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and crunchy crumble topping come together to create a dessert that is both comforting and delightful. Whether you make them for a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself, these cherry pie bars are sure to be a favorite in your baking repertoire.