Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add flour and salt to the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
Layer and Add Filling
Spread two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared pan, pressing firmly to form the base. Spread cherry pie filling over the dough.
Create the Topping
Crumble the remaining one-third of dough evenly over the cherry filling.
Bake
Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until edges are golden brown and the center is set. Remove from oven and cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Prepare the Glaze (Optional)
Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over cooled bars.
Slice and Serve
Once glaze sets, slice into squares or rectangles. Enjoy the festive flavors.
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