5-Ingredient Low-Carb Cherry Pie Bars

If you’re on the lookout for a delightful dessert that won’t derail your low-carb journey, you’re in for a treat! These 5-Ingredient Low-Carb Cherry Pie Bars are the answer to your sweet cravings without the guilt. Made with juicy frozen cherries and a buttery almond flour crust, these bars are simple enough for a weekday snack but fancy enough to impress at any gathering. Plus, with just five ingredients, this recipe is both straightforward and satisfying.

Why This 5-Ingredient Low-Carb Cherry Pie Bars Stands Out

These 5-Ingredient Low-Carb Cherry Pie Bars stand out for several reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. The combination of frozen cherries and a sweet almond flour crust creates a perfect balance of tart and sweet, catering to your taste buds while keeping carbohydrates low. Additionally, they’re not just about being low-carb; they’re also gluten-free, making them accessible for various dietary needs. The use of a sugar-free sweetener allows you to enjoy a classic dessert without the added sugars, making it a healthier choice. It’s a dessert that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture!

Your Shopping Guide

To whip up these delicious 5-Ingredient Low-Carb Cherry Pie Bars, here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 cups (16 oz.) frozen cherries – Look for unsweetened varieties to keep sugar levels low.
• 1 tbsp sugar-free granulated sweetener – Choose your favorite brand to maintain sweetness without the carbs.
• 1 tbsp tapioca flour – This acts as a thickening agent for the cherry filling.
• Pinch sea salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• 3 cups almond flour – The base for the crust, providing a nutty flavor and low-carb profile.
• ½ cup coconut oil or butter, melted – Adds richness and helps bind the crust together.
• ½ cup sugar-free granulated sweetener – Sweetens the crust without the carbs.
• Pinch sea salt – For balancing flavors in the crust.
• 1 cup sugar-free powdered sugar – For the topping, giving a sweet finish.
• 2 tbsp water or lemon juice – To mix with the powdered sugar, creating a glaze.

Recommended Tools

For a smooth baking experience, here are a few tools that will come in handy:

• Mixing bowls – One for the crust and one for the cherry filling.
• 9×13 inch baking pan – To bake your cherry pie bars evenly.
• Rubber spatula – Perfect for mixing and spreading the crust and filling.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key for baking success.
• Cooling rack – To cool your bars after baking, ensuring they set perfectly.

5-Ingredient Low-Carb Cherry Pie Bars in Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling

Begin by thawing your frozen cherries in a medium saucepan over low heat. Once thawed, add 1 tablespoon of sugar-free granulated sweetener, 1 tablespoon of tapioca flour, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir consistently for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of almond flour, ½ cup of melted coconut oil or butter, ½ cup of sugar-free granulated sweetener, and a pinch of sea salt. Mix until the mixture resembles a crumbly dough.

Step 3: Press the Crust into the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan and press about two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of the pan evenly. This will form the crust for your 5-Ingredient Low-Carb Cherry Pie Bars.

Step 4: Add the Cherry Filling

Pour the cooled cherry filling over the crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Crumble the Remaining Dough

Take the remaining dough and crumble it over the cherry filling. This will create a beautiful topping that will bake to a golden brown.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place your baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cherries are bubbling.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a cooling rack. In the meantime, mix 1 cup of sugar-free powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of water or lemon juice to create a glaze. Drizzle this over the cooled bars before slicing.

Quick Replacement Ideas

If you’re missing an ingredient or want to customize your 5-Ingredient Low-Carb Cherry Pie Bars, here are some quick replacements:

• Frozen cherries can be swapped for fresh or other frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries.
• For coconut oil, you can use unsalted butter or ghee as alternatives.
• If you don’t have tapioca flour, cornstarch or arrowroot powder can work as thickeners.
• Granulated sweetener can be replaced with your preferred low-carb sweetener, such as erythritol or monk fruit.

What Could Go Wrong

While these 5-Ingredient Low-Carb Cherry Pie Bars are simple, there are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the cherries can cause them to become mushy. Keep an eye on them while thickening.
• If the crust is too crumbly, it may not hold together well. Make sure to mix thoroughly and press it firmly into the pan.
• Not letting the bars cool completely before slicing may result in a messy presentation.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To maximize the freshness of your 5-Ingredient Low-Carb Cherry Pie Bars, consider the following tips:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm slightly before serving for the best taste.

Your Top Questions

Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but you might need to adjust the cooking time as they will have a different moisture content.

Are these cherry pie bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! These 5-Ingredient Low-Carb Cherry Pie Bars are made with almond flour, making them a fantastic gluten-free dessert option.

How can I make these bars more decadent?

For a richer flavor, consider adding a touch of vanilla extract or almond extract to the crust or cherry filling.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Definitely! Just use a larger baking pan and increase the baking time slightly, checking for doneness regularly.

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Bring It Home

Now that you have the recipe for 5-Ingredient Low-Carb Cherry Pie Bars, it’s your turn to bring some sweetness into your kitchen. The balance of tart cherries with a nutty, buttery crust creates a delightful dessert that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them alone, these bars will surely become a favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in the deliciousness of your homemade cherry pie bars!