These Cherry Bars are a delightful and easy dessert, featuring a buttery shortbread crust and a crumbly topping that encases a bright, sweet layer of cherry pie filling.
Cherry Bars (Cherry Crumble Bars)
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 cups |
| Unsalted Butter (room temperature) | 1 cup |
| Granulated Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Pure Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Cherry Pie Filling | 1 can (21 oz) |
| Chopped Almonds (optional) | 1/2 cup |
How To Make Cherry Bars:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, 1/2 cup sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Gradually stir in the flour and salt until the dough takes on a crumbly texture.
Step 3: Form the Crust
Reserve about 1 1/2 cups of the dough for the topping. Press the remaining dough firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create the crust.
Step 4: Add the Filling
Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the crust.
Step 5: Add Topping and Nuts
If desired, sprinkle chopped almonds over the cherry filling. Then crumble the reserved dough evenly on top to form the crumbly topping.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the crust and topping are golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy!
