- Preheat the oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Cream butter and sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Beat with a hand or stand mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this helps ensure the crust is soft and tender.
- Add eggs and extracts
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate. Then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts. The almond extract adds a classic flavor pairing with cherries.
- Mix dry ingredients and combine
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. The dough will be thick—this is normal.
- Spread the bottom layer
Using a spatula or your hands, spread about two-thirds of the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Press it into the corners for an even layer that will hold the cherry filling.
- Add the cherry pie filling
Spoon the cherry pie filling over the bottom crust. Spread it gently and evenly to ensure each bite will include that fruity goodness. Avoid pressing it in—just let it sit on top.
- Add the top layer of batter
With the remaining batter, drop spoonfuls over the cherry layer. You don’t need to cover every inch—the gaps allow the cherry to peek through and add a rustic charm.
- Bake the bars
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the non-fruity part comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before glazing.
- Prepare and drizzle the glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Once the bars have cooled, drizzle the glaze generously over the top using a spoon or piping bag. Allow the glaze to set before cutting into squares.
- Calories:220
- Fat:9 g
- Carbohydrates:32 g
- Sugar:20 g
- Protein:2 g
- Sodium:120 mg
- Fiber:0.5 g
Soft, Fruity, and Perfect for Parties – Cherry Elegance Pie Bars 🍒
Cherry Elegance Pie Bars are the perfect fusion of classic pie flavor and easy dessert bar convenience. This cherry dessert bar recipe features a rich, buttery crust that melts in your mouth, a vibrant cherry pie filling for sweet-tart balance, and a smooth powdered sugar glaze that adds the final touch of elegance. If you’re searching for a quick cherry dessert that looks impressive and tastes even better, this is it.
Whether you’re hosting a party, prepping for the holidays, or simply craving a nostalgic cherry treat, these bars check every box. This recipe is simple enough for beginner bakers and rewarding enough for seasoned pros. The addition of almond extract deepens the flavor, pairing beautifully with the cherries and giving these bars that bakery-quality finish.
Unlike traditional cherry pie, these bars are easy to cut, pack, and share—making them perfect for potlucks, school events, and gatherings. They hold their shape, travel well, and keep for several days, whether stored in the fridge or freezer.
Why Choose This Cherry Dessert Recipe?
✔️ An easy cherry dessert with canned cherry pie filling
✔️ Make-ahead fruit dessert bars that freeze well
✔️ No-roll crust cherry dessert with minimal cleanup
✔️ Golden, tender crust with a glossy cherry center
✔️ Sugary glaze for the perfect finishing touch
With a prep time under 15 minutes and a straightforward baking process, this is the kind of recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Make this your go-to recipe for easy cherry pie bars, and enjoy a slice of homemade elegance anytime.
Is This Recipe Healthy? 🍒
Cherry Elegance Pie Bars offer a delightful combination of sweet flavor and easy preparation, making them a favorite for both everyday desserts and special occasions. With a soft, buttery base, tangy cherry pie filling, and smooth powdered sugar glaze, this dessert provides a satisfying bite that’s perfect for sharing. But how do these bars stack up when it comes to health?
While this recipe isn’t classified as a “healthy dessert,” it can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
✅ Nutritional Benefits:
- Cherries – Naturally rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which can support immunity and reduce inflammation.
- Eggs – Provide protein, vitamin B12, and choline, which are essential for brain function and metabolism.
- Almond Extract – Though used in small amounts, almonds contain healthy fats that support heart health.
⚠️ Health Considerations:
- High Sugar Content – The cherry pie filling and glaze increase added sugars, which may impact blood sugar levels if consumed frequently.
- Refined Flour – White flour lacks fiber, meaning these bars are less nutritionally dense compared to whole-grain alternatives.
- Butter & Saturated Fat – While butter adds rich flavor, it also contains saturated fats, which should be enjoyed in moderation.
🌱 Healthier Modifications:
Replace butter with Greek yogurt or a plant-based substitute for a lighter version.
Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or a gluten-free alternative to increase fiber.
Use low-sugar cherry filling or make a fresh cherry compote instead.
Reduce the amount of sugar in the glaze or skip it altogether.
