Cherry Pie Bars

For the Bars:

• 1 cup buter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

6. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
7. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

8. Spread about ¾ of the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
9. Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the batter.
10. Drop the remaining batter in small spoonfuls over the cherry layer (it doesn’t have to fully cover it).

Step 4: Bake

11. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
12. Let cool completely before glazing.

Step 5: Add the Glaze

13. Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
14. Drizzle over the cooled bars.

 Methods & Tips for Success

• Creaming Method: Properly creaming butter and sugar gives a soft, tender texture.
• Layering Technique: Don’t worry about perfect coverage—rustic layers give charm.
• Cooling Time: Allow full cooling before cutting to get clean slices.
• Flavor Boost: Add a hint of almond extract for a bakery-style cherry flavor.