least 4 hours, or overnight if you can. This helps the bars firm up enough to slice neatly and lets the flavors come together.
Slice and serve: When ready to serve, run a knife around the edges of each dish to loosen the bars. Cut each pan into 12 squares (3 by 4) for a total of 24 bars. Use a small spatula to lift them out, wiping the spatula between cuts if you want especially tidy slices.
Store leftovers: Cover any leftover bars and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. They’re delicious straight from the fridge, and they make an easy make-ahead dessert for busy school nights or weekend company.
Variations & Tips
For picky eaters or kids who don’t love cherries, you can easily swap the cherry pie filling for blueberry, strawberry, or even