Cherry Bars with Vanilla Glaze are the perfect balance of tart and sweet, wrapped in a buttery, tender crust that melts in your mouth. These bars capture the vibrant flavor of ripe cherries, complemented by a smooth, creamy vanilla glaze that adds a luscious finish. Whether you’re craving a delightful afternoon snack or a show-stopping dessert for your next gathering, these cherry bars deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. Their bright color and inviting aroma make them as pleasing to the eyes as they are to the palate.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Bars with Vanilla Glaze
Simple and approachable: Easy-to-follow steps make baking these bars enjoyable, even for beginners.
Bursting with real cherry flavor: Made with fresh or frozen cherries for that juicy, tangy punch.
Buttery, tender crust: The perfect base that’s crumbly yet holds everything together beautifully.
Decadent vanilla glaze: Adds a creamy sweetness that elevates the cherries without overpowering them.
Versatile treat: Ideal for lunchboxes, picnics, parties, or a cozy night in.
Make-ahead friendly: These bars keep well and taste even better after resting, making them perfect for planning ahead.
Eye-catching and festive: Their vibrant cherry topping and glossy glaze brighten any dessert table.
Ingredients for Cherry Bars with Vanilla Glaze
Let these fresh, vibrant ingredients come together to create a dessert that sings. Here’s what you’ll need:
All-purpose flour: The backbone of the bars, providing structure and a soft texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps create that lovely golden crust.
Baking powder: This leavening agent gives the bars a light, fluffy quality.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and contribute to the bars’ tenderness.
Vanilla extract: A must-have for that warm, comforting flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries.
Cherry pie filling: The star of the show! It brings a burst of fruity goodness to each bite.
Powdered sugar: Essential for the glaze, giving it that sweet, smooth finish.
Milk: Helps achieve the perfect consistency for the glaze.
Vanilla extract (for glaze): A touch more vanilla elevates the glaze to new heights.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter for a nutty twist. You can also swap the cherry pie filling for blueberry or peach filling if you’re feeling adventurous. The exact measurements for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Cherry Bars with Vanilla Glaze
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish. Grease it lightly or line it with parchment paper. This will make removing the bars a breeze later. Trust me, you’ll want every last crumb!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial for ensuring even distribution of the leavening agent. A well-mixed dry blend sets the stage for those fluffy Cherry Bars with Vanilla Glaze!
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Now, it’s time to add the fun stuff! Toss in the softened butter, large eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry mix. Stir until everything is well combined and a thick batter forms. The aroma of vanilla will start to fill your kitchen, and it’s just the beginning!
Step 4: Layer the Batter
Spread half of the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish. Next, spoon the cherry pie filling over the batter, spreading it out gently. Finally, drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter on top. It’s okay if some cherry filling peeks through; it adds character!
Step 5: Bake
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s ready when the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The anticipation will be worth it!
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
While the bars cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and half a teaspoon of vanilla extract in a small bowl. Aim for a smooth consistency. This glaze is the cherry on top—literally! It will add a sweet finish to your delicious creation.
Step 7: Drizzle and Serve
Once the bars have cooled, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. Cut them into squares, and serve! These Cherry Bars with Vanilla Glaze are perfect for sharing, but I won’t judge if you keep a few for yourself!
Tips for Success
Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing; it helps create a smooth batter.
Don’t skip the parchment paper; it makes removing the bars a breeze.
Let the bars cool completely before glazing for a neater finish.
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.
Equipment Needed
9×13-inch baking dish: A standard size for these bars; a glass or metal dish works well.
Mixing bowls: Use a large bowl for dry ingredients and a medium one for wet.
Whisk: Essential for mixing; a fork can work in a pinch.
Spatula: Perfect for spreading batter and scraping the bowl clean.
Parchment paper: Optional, but it makes cleanup a breeze.
Variations
Almond Cherry Bars: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter for a nutty flavor that complements the cherries beautifully.
Berry Medley: Swap the cherry pie filling for a mix of blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries for a vibrant twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these bars suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use a plant-based butter alternative.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent touch, melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cherry ice cream complements the bars perfectly.
Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
Presentation: Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.
Drink Pairing: Enjoy with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.
FAQs about Cherry Bars with Vanilla Glaze
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries can be used, but you’ll need to cook them down with some sugar and cornstarch to create a filling-like consistency. This will enhance the flavor and keep the bars moist.
How do I store leftover Cherry Bars with Vanilla Glaze?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving!
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze Cherry Bars with Vanilla Glaze! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
What can I substitute for the vanilla extract?
If you’re out of vanilla extract, almond extract is a great alternative. It adds a unique flavor that pairs well with the cherries. Just use half the amount, as almond extract is more potent.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Definitely! You can bake the bars a day in advance. Just glaze them right before serving to keep that fresh, sweet finish. They’ll taste just as delicious the next day!
Final Thoughts
Creating Cherry Bars with Vanilla Glaze is more than just baking; it’s about crafting memories. The joy of pulling these golden bars from the oven, the sweet aroma filling your kitchen, and the smiles they bring to family and friends are priceless. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that transports you back to simpler times. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, these bars are sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. So, roll up your sleeves and let the baking adventure begin!
Cherry Bars with Vanilla Glaze are a delightful sweet treat that combines a soft, buttery base with a luscious cherry filling, topped with a smooth vanilla glaze.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup cherry pie filling
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add the softened butter, eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined and a thick batter forms.
Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Spoon the cherry pie filling over the batter, spreading it out evenly.
Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the cherry filling. It’s okay if some of the filling is still visible.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the bars are cooling, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cherry bars. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
For a richer flavor, try adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter.
You can also substitute the cherry pie filling with blueberry or peach filling for a different twist.
