Ingredients
For the Bars
1 cup butter, softened
2 cups sugar
4 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
Optional Glaze
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Layer and Bake
Press two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared pan to create the base layer. Spread the cherry pie filling evenly over the dough.
Step 5: Create Crumb Topping
Crumble the remaining one-third of the dough evenly over the cherry filling.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, until the edges are golden and the center is set. Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 7: Prepare Glaze (Optional)
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bars.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once the glaze has set, cut the bars into squares or rectangles and enjoy the festive flavors.
Tips
Chill the dough slightly before pressing into the pan for easier handling.
For extra texture, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before baking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.