Experience the joy of cherry pie in a convenient, easy-to-serve form with our Delightful Cherry Pie Slab Bars. These bars combine a buttery, flaky crust with a luscious cherry filling, making them perfect for picnics, parties, or any gathering. Each bite offers the sweet-tart flavor of cherries paired with a tender, golden crust, ensuring a treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
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Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 12
- Serving Size: 1 bar
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 300g (2 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 225g (1 cup) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 60ml (1/4 cup) ice water
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the Cherry Filling:
- 600g (4 cups) fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 150g (3/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 30g (1/4 cup) cornstarch
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp almond extract
For the Glaze:
- 120g (1 cup) powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Method of Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll out one half to fit a 9x13-inch baking pan, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Refrigerate both crusts for 15 minutes.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the cherries release their juices, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Pour the cherry filling over the chilled crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Roll out the remaining dough and place it over the cherry filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal.
- Brush the top crust with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cherry pie bars before cutting them into squares.
Tips for Culinary Success
- For an extra flaky crust, make sure your butter is very cold before mixing it into the flour.
- If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain them before cooking to avoid excess liquid in the filling.
- Customize your bars by adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cherry filling for a warm spice flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: Can I use canned cherry pie filling? A: Yes, you can use canned cherry pie filling for convenience, but the flavor of fresh or frozen cherries is recommended for the best taste.
- Q: How should I store leftover cherry pie bars? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Enjoy them cold or warmed in the microwave.
- Q: Can I freeze these bars? A: Yes, you can freeze the bars before adding the glaze. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and glaze before serving.
Treat yourself and your loved ones to the delightful taste of homemade Cherry Pie Slab Bars. Perfect for any occasion, these bars bring the classic flavors of cherry pie into an easy-to-share format. Enjoy the sweet-tart cherries and buttery crust with every delicious bite!