Ingredients:
For the Crust and Topping:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 15×10-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Make the Crust:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined.
- Assemble the Bars:
- Spread about two-thirds of the batter into the prepared baking pan, pressing it into an even layer.
- Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the batter.
- Drop the remaining batter by spoonfuls over the cherry filling. It doesn’t have to cover completely; some cherry filling should still peek through.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable. Add more milk if needed to reach the desired consistency.
- Glaze the Bars:
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cherry bars.
- Serve:
- Once the glaze has set, cut the bars into squares and serve.
These cherry bars are a delightful treat with a perfect balance of buttery crust and fruity filling, making them a great choice for any gathering or potluck. Enjoy!