Ingredients
For the Bars:
- 1 cup softened unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 (21-ounce) cans cherry pie filling
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray and set aside to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step helps create a tender texture in the bars.
- Add Eggs and Extracts: Beat in 4 large eggs until fully incorporated. Then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and ¼ teaspoon almond extract to add depth of flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon salt. Gradually add this flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined to form your batter.
- Assemble the Bars: Spread about 3 cups of the batter evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create the base layer. Carefully spoon the two cans of cherry pie filling evenly over the batter. Then, drop dollops of the remaining batter over the cherries, distributing them as evenly as possible for the top layer.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cake batter comes out clean and the top is lightly golden brown. If using a larger 15 x 10-inch pan, reduce the bake time to about 30 minutes. Remove from oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the bars cool, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon almond extract, and 2 tablespoons milk until smooth and pourable.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the prepared glaze evenly over the cooled cherry pie bars. Allow the glaze to set slightly before slicing into 24 servings. Enjoy your delightful cherry treat!
Notes
- You can substitute almond extract with additional vanilla extract if preferred.
- For a nuttier flavor, try adding chopped almonds or walnuts to the topping dollops.
- Make sure the bars are completely cool before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce the milk measurement slightly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
