Name: 5-Ingredient Low-Carb Cherry Pie Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 cups frozen cherries; 1 tbsp sugar-free granulated sweetener; 1 tbsp tapioca flour; 1 pinch sea salt; 3 cups almond flour; ½ cup coconut oil or butter (melted); ½ cup sugar-free granulated sweetener; 1 pinch sea salt; 1 cup sugar-free powdered sugar; 2 tbsp water or lemon juice

If you’re craving a delightful dessert but want to keep it low-carb, these 5-Ingredient Low-Carb Cherry Pie Bars are here to save the day! Bursting with the sweet and tart flavor of cherries, these bars are not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying. With just five ingredients, you can whip up a treat that feels indulgent without the guilt. Perfect for afternoon snacks or a light dessert, these cherry pie bars will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This recipe is a go-to because it combines simplicity with scrumptiousness. With only five ingredients, you don’t need to worry about complicated steps or hard-to-find items. Each element contributes to the sweet, flavorful filling and crumbly, buttery crust. Plus, the use of frozen cherries means you can enjoy this treat any time of year. It’s a recipe that’s not only easy to follow but also flexible for various dietary needs, making it a reliable choice for any occasion.

The Essentials

3 cups (16 oz.) frozen cherries: These provide the luscious, fruity filling.
1 tbsp sugar-free granulated sweetener: This keeps the filling sweet without added sugars.
1 tbsp tapioca flour: This thickens the cherry filling and gives it that perfect pie-like texture.
Pinch sea salt: Enhances the flavors of the filling and crust.
3 cups almond flour: The base for the crust, offering a low-carb alternative to traditional flour.
½ cup coconut oil or butter, melted: This adds richness and moisture to the crust.
½ cup sugar-free granulated sweetener: Used in the crust for a touch of sweetness.
Pinch sea salt: Balances the sweetness in the crust.
1 cup sugar-free powdered sugar: For the optional glaze, giving that beautiful finishing touch.
2 tbsp water or lemon juice: To mix with the powdered sugar for the glaze.

Gear Up: What to Grab

Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients seamlessly.
9×9-inch baking pan: Perfect size for these cherry pie bars.
Parchment paper: To line your baking pan for easy removal.
Spatula: For spreading the crust mixture evenly.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure your ingredients are used accurately.

Mastering 5-Ingredient Low-Carb Cherry Pie Bars: How-To

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the bars bake evenly and gives them that perfect golden-brown finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the frozen cherries, 1 tablespoon of sugar-free granulated sweetener, 1 tablespoon of tapioca flour, and a pinch of sea salt. Mix until the cherries are well coated and set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Make the Crust

In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, melted coconut oil (or butter), ½ cup of sugar-free granulated sweetener, and a pinch of sea salt. Mix until the mixture is crumbly yet holds together when pressed.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

Line your 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal. Press half of the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Spread the cherry filling over the crust, then crumble the remaining crust mixture on top.

Step 5: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cherries are bubbly. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-baking.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool completely. In a small bowl, mix the sugar-free powdered sugar with water or lemon juice to create a glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled bars before slicing into squares.

Healthier Substitutions

Almond flour: Can be replaced with coconut flour, but you may need to adjust quantities.
Coconut oil: Substitute with any neutral oil or melted butter if preferred.
Sugar-free sweeteners: Use your favorite sweetener blend, like erythritol or stevia, to suit your taste.
Tapioca flour: Can be replaced with arrowroot powder for a similar thickening effect.

Problems & Prevention

Bars are too crumbly: Ensure the crust mixture is well combined and holds together when pressed. You may need to add a bit more melted coconut oil or butter.
Cherry filling is too watery: Make sure to use enough tapioca flour to thicken the juices from the cherries.
Over-baking: Keep a close eye on the bars as they bake, as ovens can vary. Look for a golden top and bubbling cherries.
Glaze too thick: Adjust the consistency by adding a little more water or lemon juice until it reaches your desired texture.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Once your 5-Ingredient Low-Carb Cherry Pie Bars have completely cooled, you can lift them out of the baking pan using the parchment paper. Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’d like to freeze them, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. To rewarm, simply microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you have fresh cherries, you can use them in place of frozen. Just make sure to pit and slice them before using.

What can I use if I don’t have almond flour?

You can substitute almond flour with coconut flour, but you will need to adjust the quantity, as coconut flour absorbs more moisture.

How can I make these bars more decadent?

Add a layer of cream cheese frosting or serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top for an indulgent treat!

Can I make these bars vegan?

Yes! Replace the coconut oil with a plant-based butter and use a vegan-friendly sweetener to keep it plant-based.

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