Classic Cherry Bars (9×13 Pan)

Classic Cherry Bars (9×13 Pan)

Brew a pot of coffee and enjoy these irresistible cherry bars!
Soft, buttery layers with sweet cherry filling and a vanilla glaze —
a true comfort dessert that everyone loves.

Ingredients

For the Bars

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling

For the Glaze

• 1 cup confectioner’s sugar
• 3 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil and spray with nonstick spray.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar for 1–2 minutes until light and fluffy.
4. Add salt, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
5. Add flour and baking powder. Mix just until combined.
6. Reserve 1¼ cups of the dough and set aside.
7. Press the remaining dough evenly into the prepared pan.
8. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the dough.
9. Drop the reserved dough in small pieces over the cherry filling.
10. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until golden brown.
11. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on a wire rack.

Prepare the Glaze

1. Whisk together confectioner’s sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bars.
3. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips

• Let bars cool fully before glazing for clean slices.
• Store covered at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Try blueberry or apple pie filling for variation.

Love classic desserts like this? Leave a simple “Yum 😋” to keep the recipes coming!