How to Make Cherry Pie Crumb Bars Recipe

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Are You Still Using a Fork for Cherry Pie?

What if I told you there’s a way to enjoy your favorite cherry pie—without baking a whole pie, needing a plate, or even using a fork? That’s right. Imagine soft, buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and a crunchy crumb topping… all in a grab-and-go bar. Sounds too good to be true? Welcome to the world of cherry pie Crumb Bars Recipe—the best thing to happen to dessert since, well, cherry pie.

Why This Recipe Is Special

Cherry Pie Crumb Bars take everything we love about pie and make it easier. No rolling out dough. No fancy tools. Just simple mixing and layering.

Time required: About 15 minutes to prep, 35–40 minutes to bake, plus cooling time
Skill level: Easy enough for kids and first-time bakers
Perfect for: Picnics, potlucks, after-school treats, or holiday trays

You get all the juicy cherry flavor in a buttery, sweet bar that you can hold in one hand.

Essential Ingredients (and Why They Matter)

To make these crumb bars, you only need pantry basics. Let’s break down what’s going into your mixing bowl:

Base & Crumb Topping (they’re the same!)

All-purpose flour: Gives the bars structure. You can swap with a gluten-free blend.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps brown the crust.
Unsalted butter (cold): Cold butter is key to that crumbly, tender texture. You can use vegan butter, too.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweet flavors.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the crust and topping.

Cherry Filling

Cherry pie filling (store-bought or homemade): The star of the show! Use canned for ease or make your own with fresh or frozen cherries.
Cornstarch (if making from scratch): Helps thicken the cherry juice.
Lemon juice: Brightens the flavor and balances the sweetness.
Almond extract (optional): A little goes a long way and brings out the cherry flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

These bars come together in layers: crust, filling, and topping.

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Heat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish with parchment paper. This makes it easier to lift the bars out later.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, mix 1 ½ cups flour, ½ cup sugar, and ¼ teaspoon salt.
Cut in ¾ cup cold butter using a fork, pastry cutter, or your fingers. Stop when the mix looks like coarse crumbs.
Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla.

Step 3: Press the Base

Take 2/3 of the dough and press it into the bottom of your baking pan. Press firmly to get an even base.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, just until lightly golden. Let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Make the Filling (if homemade)

In a saucepan, combine 2 cups cherries, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
Cook over medium heat until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Let it cool for 5–10 minutes.

(If using canned filling, just open the can and spoon it out!)

Step 5: Add Filling & Topping

Spread the cherry filling evenly over the baked crust.
Crumble the rest of the dough over the top, pinching some into bigger chunks for texture.

Step 6: Bake Again

Bake the whole thing for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden and the filling bubbles around the edges.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing. If you rush, they may fall apart.
Use a sharp knife to cut into 16 squares or 9 large bars.

Assembly & Presentation Tips

Once the bars are cooled and cut, arrange them on a plate with a dusting of powdered sugar for a bakery-style look.
Add a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if serving on a dessert plate.
Going for a festive look? Drizzle melted white chocolate over the top.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These bars are just as tasty the next day—maybe even better.

Room temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Fridge: Keeps for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter.
Reheat tip: Warm in the microwave for 10 seconds for that just-baked softness.

Make the crust dough and cherry filling ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just layer and bake when ready.

Cherry Pie Crumb Bar Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun ways to make this recipe your own:

Berry mix bars: Use a combo of cherries, blueberries, and raspberries.
Nutty topping: Add chopped pecans or sliced almonds to the crumble.
Chocolate swirl: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
Citrus twist: Stir in orange zest for a summery flavor.
Vegan version: Use dairy-free butter and a flax egg (if your crust needs binding).

Conclusion: Let’s Get Baking!

Cherry Pie Crumb Bars are the perfect mix of sweet, tart, soft, and crumbly. They’re easy enough for a weekday bake and pretty enough for a party tray. Whether you’re making them for a potluck, a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, or just because you have a can of cherry pie filling in the pantry, this recipe is a winner.

So go ahead—grab your apron, turn on the oven, and get baking. Don’t forget to sneak a bite while they cool. I won’t tell.

FAQs About Cherry Pie Crumb Bars Recipe

1. Can I use frozen cherries instead of canned filling?

Yes! Just simmer frozen cherries with a little sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice until thick. Let cool before layering.

2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour in place of regular flour.

3. How long do they stay fresh?

Up to 5 days in the fridge, or 2 months in the freezer.

4. Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes. Try cutting the sugar in the crust by ¼. The cherry filling will still bring lots of sweetness.

5. Are Cherry Pie Crumb Bars healthy?

They’re a treat, but you can make them healthier with whole wheat flour, less sugar, or using fresh cherries.