Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe
If you are looking for a wonderfully comforting dessert that captures the perfect balance between sweet, tart, and crunchy textures, this Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe is going to be your new favorite go-to. Each bite delivers juicy cherries nestled under a buttery, oat-filled crumble that offers just the right amount of chew and crispness. These bars are simple to make yet packed with delightful flavors that feel both nostalgic and fresh. Whether for a family gathering, a casual afternoon treat, or a picnic dessert, this recipe brings joy and a burst of cherry goodness every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step toward baking these irresistible bars. Each item plays a vital role: from the juicy cherries that provide vibrant color and tartness to the oats and brown sugar in the crumble that contribute heartiness and sweetness. The right balance and quality make all the difference in taste and texture.
- Cherries, 2 cups (300 g), pitted and quartered: Fresh or frozen cherries create the juicy, flavorful filling that defines the bars.
- Granulated sugar, 2 Tablespoons (25 g): Sweetens the cherry filling without overpowering its natural tartness.
- All-purpose flour, 3/4 cup (90 g) plus 2 Tablespoons: The flour in the crumble adds structure while the smaller amount in the filling thickens the cherry juices perfectly.
- Vanilla or almond extract, 1/2 teaspoon: Adds a subtle, aromatic depth to complement the cherries.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats, 1 cup (100 g): Provides that chewy, wholesome texture that makes the crumble topping so addictive.
- Brown sugar, 1/2 cup (105 g): Introduces a rich molasses flavor that deepens the sweetness of the crumble.
- Salt, 1/4 teaspoon: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- Salted butter, 6 Tablespoons (85 g), melted: The butter binds the crumble and gives richness and a golden finish.
How to Make Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prep Oven & Pan
Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). For easy cleanup and neat bars, line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. This small step makes lifting the bars out a breeze and keeps the bottoms from sticking.
Step 2: Make Cherry Filling
In a medium bowl, toss together the pitted and quartered cherries with granulated sugar, two tablespoons of flour, and your choice of vanilla or almond extract. This mixture thickens nicely during baking so the cherries don’t turn watery, while that hint of extract adds a subtle fragrance that brightens every bite.
Step 3: Prepare Crumble Topping
Mix the oats, 3/4 cup flour, brown sugar, and salt in another bowl. Pour in the melted salted butter and stir until it completely moistens the mixture. The oats give a satisfying chew, and the brown sugar ensures the topping caramelizes beautifully, creating a delicious contrast to the juicy filling.
Step 4: Assemble Bars
Press two-thirds of the crumble mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form an even, sturdy base. Then, spoon the cherry filling evenly atop that crust, spreading it to the edges. Finally, sprinkle the remaining crumble evenly over the cherries. This layered assembly promises a perfect bite with crust, fruit, and topping in harmony.
Step 5: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes. Look for a lightly golden crumble topping and bubbling cherry filling around the edges – the telltale sign your bars are perfectly cooked and ready to enjoy.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes so they can set up nicely before slicing. Cutting into 16 bars makes them great for sharing. Serve warm for a melty, comforting treat or at room temperature as a convenient, grab-and-go dessert.
How to Serve Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe
Garnishes
While these bars are delightful on their own, a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream adds an elegant touch. Fresh mint leaves can provide a pop of color and a refreshing aroma, enhancing the presentation and flavor experience.
Side Dishes
Pairing your cherry crumble bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream rounds out this dessert beautifully, balancing the warm fruitiness with cool creaminess. A cup of strong coffee or tea is also a perfect companion, especially during those cozy afternoon moments.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or parties, arrange your Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe squares on a rustic wooden board alongside fresh cherries and small bowls of toppings like chopped nuts or chocolate chips. This makes for an interactive and visually stunning dessert display that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, they refrigerate well for up to five days without losing their delicious texture or flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze these bars for up to three months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and they’ll taste almost as perfect as freshly baked.
Reheating
Warm the bars briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This refreshes the crumble’s crispness and makes the cherry filling wonderfully gooey again. Microwaving works in a pinch but can soften the crumble topping slightly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries in this Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mixing to avoid a soggy filling. Frozen cherries work wonderfully and make this recipe easy year-round.
What can I substitute for all-purpose flour?
You can use a gluten-free flour blend one-to-one if needed, but make sure it includes a binder like xanthan gum for the best texture. Almond flour can add a nice nutty flavor but will change the texture slightly.
Is it necessary to use salted butter?
Salted butter helps balance sweetness and enhances flavors, but if all you have is unsalted, simply add a pinch of salt to the crumble mixture to compensate.
How can I make the crumble topping more crunchy?
Using rolled oats rather than quick oats and ensuring the butter is fully melted but not overheated can maximize crunch. Baking until golden and slightly caramelized brings out the best texture.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes! Swap the butter for coconut oil or a plant-based margarine and use a vegan-friendly sugar to keep the bars deliciously plant-based without sacrificing texture or flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe is pure joy baked into squares, perfect for so many occasions and sure to brighten your baking routine. Give these bars a try and enjoy the rewarding mix of tart cherries, sweet crumble, and buttery goodness that only this recipe can deliver. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll become a cherished recipe you’ll return to again and again!
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Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
These Cherry Crumble Bars feature a delightful combination of juicy cherries and a buttery oat crumble topping baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a snack or dessert, these bars offer a balance of sweet fruit filling and crunchy crumble, easy to make and ideal for serving warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Cherry Filling
- 2 cups (300 g) cherries, pitted and quartered (about 60)
- 2 tablespoons (25 g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons (16 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract
Crumble Topping
- 1 cup (100 g) old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup (90 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (105 g) brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons (85 g) salted butter, melted
Instructions
- Prep Oven & Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, which makes removing the bars after baking easier.
- Make Cherry Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the pitted and quartered cherries, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and vanilla or almond extract. Mix well to coat the cherries evenly, then set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare Crumble Topping: In a separate medium bowl, stir together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Pour the melted salted butter over the mixture and stir thoroughly until all ingredients are moistened and no dry clumps remain.
- Assemble Bars: Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating an even, compact layer. Spoon the cherry filling evenly over this base, spreading it to the edges. Then sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture evenly on top of the cherries to form the top layer.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the crumble topping is lightly golden and the cherry filling bubbles around the edges, signaling it’s cooked through.
- Cool & Serve: Remove from the oven and let the cherry crumble bars cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes to set. Once cooled, cut into 16 bars and serve warm or at room temperature for a delicious treat.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor; frozen cherries can be used but should be thawed and drained.
- To make removal easier, allow bars to cool completely before slicing.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week.
- For a nutty twist, consider sprinkling chopped almonds or walnuts on top before baking.
- If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute salted butter with a plant-based margarine.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
