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Prepare the crust and topping:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Make the cherry filling:
In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
Assemble the bars:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Press about two-thirds of the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan.
Add the filling:
Spread the cherry filling evenly over the crust layer.
Top and bake:
Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the cherry layer. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
Cool and serve:
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
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