Cherry Pie Bars with Crumb Topping
Sweet, buttery, and bursting with juicy cherry flavor, these Cherry Pie Bars with Crumb Topping are the perfect easy dessert! Made with a soft buttery crust, luscious cherry filling, and a golden crumb topping, they're ideal for holidays, potlucks, bake sales, or summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- For the Base and Crumb Topping
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Cherry Filling
- 3 cups cherry pie filling or sweet cherries, pitted
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch if using fresh or frozen cherries
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan and Oven : Preheat the oven and line the baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Make the Crumb Mixture : Mix the dry ingredients together, then cut in the cold butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Add the egg and vanilla to bind the mixture lightly.
- Form the Base : Press most of the crumb mixture into the pan, creating a compact and even crust.
- Add the Cherry Filling : Spread the cherry filling evenly across the crust, ensuring it reaches the edges.
- Add the Crumb Topping : Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the filling without pressing it down.
- Bake and Cool : Bake until golden and bubbling, then cool completely to allow the bars to set properly.