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
Scale
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.
