Print

Cherry Pie Bars with Almond Glaze

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

These Cherry Pie Bars with Almond Glaze combine the comforting flavors of classic cherry pie with the ease of a bar dessert. A buttery crust, sweet-tart cherry filling, and smooth almond glaze come together in a simple yet elegant treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

4 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon baking powder

3 cups all-purpose flour

For the Cherry Filling:

4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted (thawed and drained if frozen)

¾ cup granulated sugar

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Almond Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

23 tablespoons milk or cream

1 teaspoon almond extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  2. Prepare the Cherry Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir gently until thickened and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Make the Crust: In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
  4. Whisk together flour and baking powder in a separate bowl, then gradually add to the wet mixture until fully combined.
  5. Spread two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared pan to form the base.
  6. Assemble: Spread cherry filling over the crust, then crumble the remaining dough evenly on top.
  7. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Let cool completely in the pan.
  8. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract until smooth. Drizzle over cooled bars and let set before slicing.

Notes

Replace half the cherries with blueberries for a mixed berry version.

Sprinkle sliced almonds on top of the glaze for added crunch.

Add orange zest to the crust or glaze for a citrus twist.

Use a shortbread base for a firmer texture.

For a festive finish, drizzle melted white chocolate instead of glaze.

Nutrition