How do I keep Sheet Pan Cherry Pie Bars from becoming soggy?

To prevent soggy cherry pie bars, make sure the crust is baked until it is properly set and avoid adding too much filling. Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing also helps the crust maintain its texture while the cherry layer firms up.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of canned cherry pie filling?

Yes, fresh cherries can be used to make Sheet Pan Cherry Pie Bars. Cook the cherries with sugar and a thickening ingredient until the mixture reaches a pie filling consistency. This creates a fresh cherry flavor while keeping the same delicious dessert structure.

How long do Sheet Pan Cherry Pie Bars stay fresh?

These cherry pie bars can stay fresh for several days when stored in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for short-term storage or refrigerate them to maintain the best texture and flavor for a longer period.

Easy Sheet Pan Cherry Pie Bars for a Crowd

Description

Sheet Pan Cherry Pie Bars are an easy homemade dessert featuring a buttery crust, sweet cherry pie filling, and a tender topping baked together in one convenient pan. This crowd-friendly cherry dessert is perfect for holidays, potlucks, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a simple and delicious fruit-filled treat.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure for the buttery crust and topping.
1 cup unsalted butter: Creates a rich, tender, and flavorful base.
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and enhances the cherry flavor.
4 large eggs: Helps bind the dough and creates a soft texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warm and sweet flavor.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall taste.
2 cans cherry pie filling (about 42 ounces total): Creates the juicy fruit center of the bars.
1/2 teaspoon almond extract: Adds a classic bakery-style flavor that pairs well with cherries.
1/2 cup powdered sugar: Used for a sweet finishing drizzle or topping.

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Instructions

Preheat the oven and prepare a large sheet pan with parchment paper or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Mix the flour, sugar, butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until a soft dough forms.
Reserve some dough for the topping and spread the remaining dough evenly across the prepared sheet pan.
Spread the cherry pie filling over the crust layer, making sure it is evenly distributed.
Add small pieces of the reserved dough over the cherry filling to create the topping.
Bake until the crust is golden and the topping is fully set.
Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares for the cleanest presentation.
Dust with powdered sugar or add a glaze before serving.

Notes

Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to prevent the cherry filling from spreading.
Parchment paper makes it easier to remove the bars from the pan and create even slices.
Fresh, frozen, or canned cherries can be used depending on availability.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to several days.
These cherry pie bars can be frozen and thawed before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 260 kcal
Sugar: 22 g
Sodium: 120 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 3 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg