If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly balances sweet, tart cherries with a satisfyingly crumbly, buttery topping, then you are going to adore this Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe. These bars are a delightful blend of juicy fruit nestled between layers of oat-infused crumble, delivering both comforting nostalgia and a fresh burst of flavor. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, this recipe is definitely one to add to your baking repertoire for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply a weekend treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe truly shine is its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony between texture, sweetness, and that beautiful pop of cherry color that makes these bars so inviting.
- Cherries (2 cups, pitted and quartered): The star of the recipe, fresh cherries bring natural tartness and juiciness that brighten the bars.
- Granulated sugar (2 Tablespoons): Just enough to enhance the cherries’ sweetness without overpowering their natural flavor.
- All-purpose flour (3/4 cup plus 2 Tablespoons): Provides structure to the crumble and helps thicken the cherry filling.
- Vanilla or almond extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle depth and aroma that complements the cherries beautifully.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats (1 cup): Gives the crumble that hearty, rustic texture that makes it extra satisfying.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds rich, caramel notes that balance the tartness of the fruit.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors, making each bite pop.
- Salted butter (6 Tablespoons, melted): The golden moisture that binds and enriches the crumbly layers while lending a buttery finish.
How to Make Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prep Oven & Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preparing your baking pan is key for easy bar removal later — line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper, allowing a little overhang for effortless lifting.
Step 2: Make Cherry Filling
In a medium bowl, toss together those beautiful quartered cherries with granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and a splash of vanilla or almond extract. Mixing these early lets the flavors meld, creating a luscious, slightly thickened cherry filling that’s bursting with fruity goodness.
Step 3: Prepare Crumble Topping
Combine your rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt in another bowl. Pour in the melted salted butter and stir until every bit is moistened, transforming into a crumbly blend without dry patches. This mixture will give your bars that signature golden, crunchy top and a satisfying chew.
Step 4: Assemble Bars
Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture firmly into your prepared pan to form the base. Then, spoon the cherry filling evenly across the crust, spreading it close to the edges. Finally, sprinkle the remaining crumble blend on top as a delightful topping that will bake to a crispy, golden perfection.
Step 5: Bake the Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe
Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for roughly 20 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the crumble turns lightly golden and you see the cherry filling bubbling around the edges—a sight that’s as tempting as the taste!
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Patience is a virtue here: let the bars cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes to set perfectly before slicing into 16 pieces. Serve these bars warm to enjoy gooey fruit and melty crumble or at room temperature for a sturdier texture that still sings with flavor.
How to Serve Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to contrast the fruity tang and crunchy topping. A light dusting of powdered sugar also adds a pretty finishing touch and a hint of extra sweetness.
Side Dishes
These bars pair wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or tea, making them an ideal mid-afternoon snack. For a brunch spread, consider serving alongside creamy yogurt and fresh fruit to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gift-giving, cut the bars into bite-sized squares and place them in decorative tins or box them up with wax paper liners. Adding fresh mint leaves or edible flowers on top before serving can also make your presentation pop.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying these Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe treats, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months, perfect for satisfying your cherry cravings anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop the bars in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes or until warm. Alternatively, microwave single servings for 20-30 seconds for a quick treat that tastes almost freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries for this Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make the bars soggy. Frozen cherries work wonderfully when fresh ones aren’t in season.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free oats. This adjustment keeps the bars safe for gluten-sensitive folks without sacrificing taste or texture.
How do I prevent the crumble topping from burning?
Keep an eye on the bars during the last few minutes of baking, and if the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover the pan with foil to protect it while the filling finishes bubbling.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Definitely! Swap the salted butter for a plant-based vegan butter alternative and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan, making this recipe adaptable.
What is the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
For neat slices, wait until the bars have cooled completely, then use a sharp knife that you wipe clean between cuts. This helps prevent crumbling and messy edges.
Final Thoughts
Making this Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe is like inviting a little slice of sunshine into your kitchen, with juicy cherries and buttery crumble that warm the heart and delight the palate. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or just treating yourself, these bars promise smiles with every bite—so go on, give them a try and let their magic fill your home!
Print
Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Cherry Crumble Bars, a perfect balance of tart cherry filling nestled between layers of buttery crumble topping and oat-filled base. Easy to prepare and baked to golden perfection, these bars make a wonderful treat for gatherings or a cozy snack.
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 and Base
- 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 for easy removal after baking.
- Make Cherry Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the pitted and quartered cherries with granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and vanilla or almond extract. Stir well to blend and let the mixture sit aside so the flavors meld.
- Prepare Crumble Topping: In another medium bowl, mix rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt thoroughly. Pour melted salted butter over the mixture and stir until fully combined, ensuring there are no dry patches or clumps.
- Assemble Bars: Press approximately two-thirds of the crumble mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form an even base layer. Spoon the cherry filling evenly on top, spreading it out to the edges. Finally, sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture evenly over the cherry layer.
- Bake: Place the baking pan in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the crumble topping turns lightly golden and the cherry filling bubbles around the edges.
- Cool & Serve: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes. Once cooled, cut into 16 bars. Serve warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For easier removal, line the baking pan with parchment paper extending over the edges.
- Frozen cherries can be used if fresh are unavailable; thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
- Almond extract can be substituted with vanilla extract for a milder flavor.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These bars also freeze well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
