​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze Recipe

This Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze Recipe is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of cherries with a zesty lemon glaze. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply as a treat at home, these bars are easy to make and sure to impress your guests. The best part? They require minimal effort and time in the kitchen while providing maximum flavor and visual appeal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just one pan and straightforward steps, you’ll have these delicious bars ready in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, picnic, or holiday gathering, these bars are guaranteed crowd-pleasers.
• Flavorful Combination: The sweet cherries paired with a tangy lemon glaze create a delightful balance of flavors.
• Travel-Friendly: Sliced neatly, these bars are easy to transport and serve without making a mess.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge for an effortless dessert option.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze, gather the essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A sturdy 9×13-inch pan provides ample space for even baking and easy slicing.
• Parchment Paper: Lining the pan prevents sticking and makes for quick removal of the finished bars.
• Whisk: An essential tool for combining dry ingredients and mixing the glaze smoothly.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2-3 tablespoons ice water

For the Cherry Filling

• 4 cups fresh or frozen sweet cherries, pitted
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• Pinch of salt

For the Lemon Glaze

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 3-4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

How to Make Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang for easy removal. Lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Create the Crust Base

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add cold cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Combine egg yolk with 2 tablespoons of ice water; drizzle over the flour mixture.
4. Stir gently until dough comes together; add more water if necessary but do not overwork it.

Step 3: Press and Pre-Bake the Crust

1. Reserve about 3/4 cup of the crust mixture for topping.
2. Press the remaining mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, slightly up the sides.
3. Bake for 15 minutes until edges turn golden.

Step 4: Prepare the Cherry Filling

While the crust bakes:
1. In a large bowl, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt.
2. Toss until cherries are coated evenly; mixture should look glossy.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Remove crust from oven; spread cherry mixture evenly over hot crust.
2. Crumble reserved crust mixture over cherries unevenly.
3. Return to oven; bake for 30-35 minutes until topping is golden brown.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Let bars cool completely in pan for at least 2 hours to set filling properly.

Step 7: Add the Lemon Glaze Finish

In a bowl:
1. Whisk powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and melted butter until smooth.
2. Drizzle glaze over cooled bars; let set for 15 minutes before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze!

How to Serve ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Serving Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze is as delightful as making them. These bars can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light and creamy contrast to the sweet cherries.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a delicious combination of hot and cold textures.

Accompanied by Fresh Berries

• Add a side of mixed fresh berries for a burst of color and tartness that complements the sweetness of the bars.

Drizzled with Extra Lemon Glaze

• For lemon lovers, drizzle additional lemon glaze over the bars just before serving for an extra zesty kick.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these bars alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat that balances flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Perfecting your Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out delicious every time.

• Use ripe cherries – Choose sweet, ripe cherries for the best flavor. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and drained.
• Don’t skip cooling time – Allowing the bars to cool completely helps set the filling, making slicing easier and cleaner.
• Adjust sweetness as needed – Taste the cherry filling before baking; you can adjust sugar based on cherry sweetness.
• Chill before serving – Refrigerating the bars for an hour after glazing enhances their texture and makes them refreshing.
• Be gentle when mixing – When combining ingredients, mix gently to prevent breaking up the cherries too much.

Best Side Dishes for ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze Recipe

When planning your dessert menu, consider these side dishes that pair well with Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze. They complement the flavors perfectly while adding variety to your spread.

1. Classic Green Salad – A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a fresh counterpoint to rich desserts.
2. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese offers creamy richness that balances the tartness of cherry pie bars.
3. Fruit Salad – A vibrant fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds brightness and complements the cherry flavors beautifully.
4. Grilled Peaches – Juicy grilled peaches bring warmth and caramelization that harmonize well with dessert flavors.
5. Chocolate Mousse – Rich chocolate mousse serves as an indulgent contrast, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
6. Lemon Sorbet – A refreshing lemon sorbet cleanses the palate while echoing the citrus notes in the glaze.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect your dessert’s quality.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Skipping the preheat can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to ensure your bars cook evenly from the start.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overworking the crust can make it tough. Mix until just combined for a light and flaky texture.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting into warm bars can make a mess. Allow them to cool completely for neat slices and optimal flavor.
• Using Fresh Cherries Without Pitting: Forgetting to pit fresh cherries will ruin the texture and experience. Always take time to pit them before mixing.
• Skipping the Glaze: The lemon glaze adds a delightful finish. Don’t skip it; drizzle generously over your cooled bars for extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze Recipe

• Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap before placing them in the container for easy access.

Reheating Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped bars for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds at a time until warmed through; be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze.

What type of cherries should I use for Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze Recipe?

Fresh or frozen sweet cherries work best. Both options provide excellent flavor and texture.

Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! You can use blueberries, raspberries, or even mixed berries as alternatives. Adjust sugar levels based on fruit sweetness.

How do I know when my bars are done baking?

Look for a golden-brown topping and bubbling filling around the edges. This indicates that they are perfectly baked.

Can I make these Cherry Pie Bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! They store well in the refrigerator or freezer, making them convenient for gatherings or meal prep.

Final Thoughts

These Cherry Pie Bars with Lemon Glaze are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their bright flavors and beautiful presentation will impress guests while being simple enough for everyday enjoyment. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or different fruits based on your preferences!