Cherry Pie Bars

Instructions

Step 1 Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
/n Step 2 In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
/n Step 3 Cut in the cold butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
/n Step 4 Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until a dough forms.
/n Step 5 Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
/n Step 6 In another bowl, mix the cherry filling with cornstarch and lemon juice if using fresh cherries.
/n Step 7 Spread the cherry mixture evenly over the crust.
/n Step 8 Crumble the remaining dough over the top as a topping.
/n Step 9 Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
/n Step 10 Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store the cherry pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars individually wrapped for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge.