Bangin’ Cherry Pie Bars

Symphony of Sweetness – Crafting Delightful Bangin’ Cherry Pie Bars

Dive into a world of luscious sweetness and divine textures as we embark on the journey of creating Bangin’ Cherry Pie Bars. These delectable treats are a testament to the glorious combination of tart cherries, buttery crust, and a crumbly topping that’ll make your taste buds sing. Join us in the kitchen as we unravel the secrets behind these irresistible bars that promise to be a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients: A Melody of Flavors

For the Crust and Topping:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cherry Filling:

  • 4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
  • A pinch of salt

Instructions: Crafting Cherry-Infused Bliss

A. Preparing the Crust and Topping:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture, using a pastry cutter or your fingers to create a crumbly texture.
  4. Reserve about 1 1/2 cups of the mixture for the topping.
  5. To the remaining mixture, add beaten egg and vanilla extract, combining until a dough forms.

B. Forming the Base:

  1. Press the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even crust.
  2. Bake the crust for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.

C. Preparing the Cherry Filling:

  1. In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, almond extract, and a pinch of salt.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the mixture thickens.
  3. Remove from heat and let the cherry filling cool slightly.

D. Assembling Bangin’ Cherry Pie Bars:

  1. Spread the cherry filling evenly over the pre-baked crust.
  2. Sprinkle the reserved crumbly topping over the cherries.

E. Baking Brilliance:

  1. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
  2. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Cook Notes: Navigating Cherry Pie Perfection

  • Cherry Choices:
    • Fresh or frozen cherries both work splendidly. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain excess liquid.
    • Experiment with a mix of sweet and tart cherries for a dynamic flavor profile.
  • Perfecting the Crust:
    • Ensure the butter is cold for a crumbly texture.
    • Press the crust firmly into the baking dish for a sturdy base.
  • Almond Extract Magic:
    • The almond extract adds a delightful depth to the cherry filling; adjust according to your preference.
    • For a nut-free version, vanilla extract can be used as a substitute.

Variations: Elevating Cherry Pie Bars Creativity

1. Nutty Symphony:

  • Mix chopped almonds or walnuts into the crumbly topping for added crunch.

2. Citrus Infusion:

  • Add a burst of citrus by incorporating lemon or orange zest into the crust.

3. Chocolate Drizzle Elegance:

  • Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for an indulgent touch.

4. Streusel Sensation:

  • Enhance the crumbly topping with a blend of cinnamon, brown sugar, and oats.

Keto Version: Cherishing Sweetness with Low Carbs

For the Keto Bangin’ Cherry Pie Bars:

  • Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or a low-carb flour alternative.
  • Substitute granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener in both the crust and filling.
  • Opt for a combination of almond and vanilla extract for a keto-friendly flavor boost.

Low-Carb Version: Balancing Indulgence with Conscious Choices

For the Low-Carb Bangin’ Cherry Pie Bars:

  • Use a combination of almond flour and coconut flour for the crust.
  • Choose a low-carb sweetener and adjust the quantity based on sweetness preference.
  • Ensure the cherries are fresh or unsweetened if using frozen.

Conclusion: A Sweet Overture to Joyful Indulgence

In concluding our exploration of Bangin’ Cherry Pie Bars, we savor the culmination of buttery crust, sweet cherries, and crumbly topping in every bite. These bars are more than a dessert; they’re a celebration of the simple joys found in a perfectly balanced treat.

So, whether you’re sharing these bars at a gathering or enjoying a moment of solitude with a cup of tea, relish in the delight of Bangin’ Cherry Pie Bars. May they bring sweetness to your palate and joy to your heart. Happy baking!