Introduction
These 2-Ingredient Cherry Pie Bars are one of the easiest desserts you can make. With just a box of cake mix and a can of cherry pie filling, you can create sweet, fruity bars with a soft cake-like texture and a delicious cherry topping. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or whenever you need a quick dessert, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz / 432 g) yellow or white cake mix
- 1 can (21 oz / 595 g) cherry pie filling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix and cherry pie filling.
- Stir until the ingredients are fully incorporated. The batter will be thick.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 28–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.
- Serve and enjoy.
Description
These cherry pie bars are soft, moist, and packed with sweet cherry flavor. The cake mix creates a tender, fluffy texture while the cherry pie filling adds bursts of fruitiness throughout every bite. They’re simple, colorful, and ideal for beginner bakers.
Tips
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner slices.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting to help them hold their shape.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a little powdered sugar over the cooled bars.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Warm slightly before serving for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Variations
- Chocolate Cherry Bars: Use chocolate cake mix instead of yellow cake mix.
- Cherry Almond Bars: Add ½ teaspoon almond extract if using more than two ingredients.
- Mixed Berry Bars: Substitute cherry pie filling with mixed berry or blueberry pie filling.
- Lemon Cherry Bars: Use lemon cake mix for a bright, tangy twist.
- Cherry Coconut Bars: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top before baking.
Correction
For the best results, the recipe works most reliably with:
- 1 box cake mix (15.25 oz) and 1 can cherry pie filling (21 oz).
- Mix only until combined; overmixing can make the bars dense.
- Baking times may vary depending on the size and material of your baking pan, so start checking around 28 minutes.
Enjoy
Serve these easy Cherry Pie Bars as a simple dessert, afternoon snack, or sweet treat with coffee or tea. Their rich cherry flavor and effortless preparation make them a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand for busy days and last-minute gatherings. Enjoy every delicious bite!
