Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars (Kuchen)

These Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars (Kuchen) are perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or any festive occasion. With the delicious combination of cherry and blueberry flavors, these hand-held bars are not only visually appealing but also incredibly tasty. They offer a unique twist on traditional pies, making them an exciting dessert option. Plus, they are easy to prepare and serve, making them ideal for feeding a crowd!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – The straightforward steps make these pie bars a breeze to whip up, even for beginner bakers.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a picnic, BBQ, or holiday party, these bars fit right in.
• Delicious Flavor Combination – The mix of sweet cherry and blueberry creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.
• Hand-Held Treats – These bars are easy to grab and enjoy without the need for plates or utensils.
• Customizable – Feel free to swap out fillings or add toppings to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking these Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure you don’t miss anything.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• 15x10x1-inch baking pan
• Cooking spray
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer – Makes creaming butter and sugar quick and easy for a fluffy texture.
• Baking pan – A large pan is essential for baking the bars evenly and achieving the right thickness.
• Cooking spray – Prevents sticking, allowing for easy removal of the baked bars.

Ingredients

These Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars combine the flavors of cherry and blueberry pie in one unique, hand-held bar! Great for feeding a crowd!

• 1 cup butter (softened)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp almond extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• One (21-ounce can) cherry pie filling
• 1/2 of a 21 oz can blueberry pie filling (see Note below for what to do with the rest!)
• FOR THE GLAZE:
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 4 Tbsp heavy cream or milk
• Juice of 1/2 a lemon

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars (Kuchen)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 15x10x1-inch baking pan generously with cooking spray. Set it aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of your stand mixer:
1. Combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt.
2. Beat on medium speed until creamy and fluffy—about 2 minutes.
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in vanilla and almond extracts.

Step 3: Mix in the Flour

Gradually add in the all-purpose flour:
1. Mix until just combined; the dough will be very sticky.

Step 4: Layering Ingredients

In the prepared baking pan:
1. Spread about 3 cups of dough evenly across the bottom.
2. Evenly distribute cherry pie filling over this layer.
3. Dot with blueberry pie filling; gently swirl with a spoon.
4. Drop remaining dough by teaspoonfuls over the fillings.

Step 5: Baking Time

Bake in preheated oven for approximately 30-37 minutes:
1. Look for golden brown tops as an indicator they’re done.
2. Allow to cool completely in the pan before glazing.

Step 6: Prepare the Glaze

For your glaze:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine confectioners’ sugar with heavy cream or milk.
2. Add lemon juice until smooth and pourable.
3. Drizzle over cooled bars before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars!

How to Serve Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars (Kuchen)

Serving these delightful Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars is a breeze! They are perfect for gatherings and can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance their deliciousness. Here are some serving suggestions you might consider.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for added richness and texture.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a classic dessert pairing.

Drizzle with Extra Glaze

• For those who love a sweet touch, drizzle extra glaze over the top just before serving.

Garnish with Fresh Berries

• Add a handful of fresh blueberries or cherries as a garnish to elevate the presentation and flavor.

Accompanied by Lemonade

• Pair these bars with refreshing homemade lemonade for a delightful summer treat.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange them on a colorful dessert platter alongside other treats for an eye-catching dessert spread.

How to Perfect Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars (Kuchen)

To achieve the best results when making your Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better blending and fluffiness.
• Don’t overmix the dough – Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of soft ones.
• Adjust baking time – Keep an eye on the bars during baking. Ovens vary, so check for doneness slightly earlier than indicated.
• Cool completely – Allow the bars to cool fully before slicing them to ensure clean cuts and prevent them from falling apart.
• Experiment with toppings – Feel free to try different toppings or glazes like chocolate or almond flavored glazes for variety.
• Store properly – Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars (Kuchen)

These pie bars pair excellently with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the pie bars.
2. Cheese Plate – A selection of cheeses offers a savory contrast that enhances the overall dessert experience.
3. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries – Sweet strawberries dipped in chocolate make an indulgent side that pairs beautifully.
4. Ice Cream Sundae Bar – Set up toppings like nuts, sauces, and sprinkles for guests to create their own sundaes alongside the pie bars.
5. Coffee or Tea – A hot beverage can bring out the flavors in the dessert while providing warmth and comfort.
6. Mini Cupcakes – Offer an assortment of mini cupcakes as additional sweet bites that go well with your pie bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars (Kuchen). Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect measurements can affect the texture and taste of your pie bars. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of soft and chewy ones. Mix just until combined for the best results.
• Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing the baking pan properly can cause the bars to stick. Ensure you use enough cooking spray or butter to coat the pan well.
• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into warm bars can result in a mess. Let them cool completely in the pan before slicing for cleaner cuts and better presentation.
• Using stale ingredients: Using old or expired ingredients can ruin your dessert. Always check expiration dates on items like baking powder or flour.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the fridge.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars (Kuchen)

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Place in a freezer-safe container for extra protection.

Reheating Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars (Kuchen)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place bars on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars for 15-20 seconds on medium power until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for a few minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars (Kuchen) gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure that it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of pie filling?

Yes! Fresh cherries and blueberries can be used. However, you may need to add some sugar and cornstarch to thicken the mixture.

How should I serve Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars (Kuchen)?

These bars are delicious served chilled or at room temperature. They make great additions to picnics and parties!

What is the best way to customize these pie bars?

Feel free to mix different fruit fillings or add spices like cinnamon for an extra flavor boost. You could also top them with whipped cream!

Final Thoughts

Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars (Kuchen) are not only visually appealing but also incredibly versatile. They are perfect for celebrations or simply as a sweet treat at home. Experiment with different fillings and toppings to make this recipe your own!

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Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars (Kuchen)

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x

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Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with these delightful Red, White & Blueberry Pie Bars (Kuchen). Perfect for picnics, barbecues, and festive gatherings, these hand-held treats combine sweet cherry and blueberry fillings in a buttery crust. They are visually appealing and incredibly easy to prepare, making them an ideal dessert option for feeding a crowd. With their unique twist on traditional pie, these bars are sure to impress guests while satisfying your sweet tooth. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or chilled—either way, they promise a burst of flavor in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup butter (softened)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp almond extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
• 10.5 oz blueberry pie filling (half can)
• For the glaze: 1 cup confectioners' sugar
• 4 Tbsp heavy cream/milk
• juice of 1/2 lemon

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 15x10x1-inch baking pan.
2. In a stand mixer, cream together softened butter, sugar, and salt until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time followed by vanilla and almond extracts.
3. Gradually mix in flour until just combined; the dough will be sticky.
4. Spread half of the dough into the pan, layer with cherry filling, dot with blueberry filling, and drop remaining dough over the top.
5. Bake for 30-37 minutes until golden brown; cool completely before glazing.
6. For the glaze, mix confectioners' sugar with cream and lemon juice until smooth; drizzle over cooled bars before cutting.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (60g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing results. Adjust baking times as ovens may vary; check for doneness early. Experiment with different fruit fillings or toppings to customize your bars.