If you’ve been dreaming of a dessert that perfectly balances tart cherries with a buttery, crunchy topping, then this Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe is going to become your new obsession. These bars combine juicy cherry filling nestled between layers of oat-studded crumble, delivering a texture that’s both tender and satisfyingly crisp. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a cozy homemade dessert, this recipe brings that comforting, nostalgic feel with each bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first joyful step toward making these delicious bars. Each element plays an essential role in creating a harmonious blend of flavor, texture, and color that makes this dish shine.
- Cherries (2 cups, pitted and quartered): The star of the dish, bursting with sweet-tart flavor and vibrant color.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Helps to sweeten the cherries just right while aiding in thickening the filling.
- All-purpose flour (3/4 cup for crust, 2 tablespoons for filling): Adds structure to both the crumble and the filling, ensuring a sturdy but tender texture.
- Vanilla or almond extract (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the filling with a subtle fragrant note that complements the cherries beautifully.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats (1 cup): Contribute a hearty, chewy texture and a rustic flavor to the crumbly topping.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and a rich caramel undertone to the crumble layer.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavors.
- Salted butter (6 tablespoons, melted): Binds everything together and adds that irresistible buttery richness.
How to Make Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lining an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper is a clever move here — it makes lifting out the bars easier after baking, plus it helps keep the edges neat.
Step 2: Mix the Cherry Filling
In a medium bowl, toss the pitted and quartered cherries with granulated sugar, flour, and your choice of vanilla or almond extract. This classic mixture lets the sugar draw out the juicy goodness of the cherries while the flour thickens the filling as it bakes. Letting it rest for a bit lets the flavors meld into something even more delicious.
Step 3: Make the Crumble Base and Topping
In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt, then pour in the melted butter. Stirring until no dry bits remain creates a perfect, moist crumble mixture. This contrast of buttery softness and hearty oats is what gives the bars their signature texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Take two-thirds of your crumble mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. This firm layer is the foundation, so take your time to get it even and compact. Spoon the luscious cherry filling evenly over this base, then sprinkle the rest of the crumble mixture on top. This layering ensures every bite has a perfect balance of fruit and crumb.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the assembled pan into your preheated oven for about 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the crumble topping turns a lovely golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling enticingly along the edges. This signals all those wonderful flavors have melded into something magical.
Step 6: Cool and Cut
Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing into 16 squares. Cooling helps the cherry filling set so your bars will hold together beautifully. Serve warm for an extra gooey experience or at room temperature for a firmer bite.
How to Serve Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe
Garnishes
These bars are delightful on their own, but adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate their appeal. Fresh mint leaves add a pop of color and a refreshing bite that contrasts wonderfully with the sweet cherries.
Side Dishes
Pair your cherry crumble bars with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. For a more decadent treat, serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to complement the tart fruit.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving these bars on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of fresh cherries and nuts for an inviting dessert display. For parties, cut the bars into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a platter with toothpicks—perfect for sharing and sampling.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cherry crumble bars keep beautifully at room temperature for a day or two when covered tightly. For best freshness, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their texture and flavor without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze these bars for up to 3 months—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Warm your bars gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to revive their fresh-baked texture. This step brings back the magical warmth and lets the crumble topping regain its crispness.
FAQs
Can I substitute frozen cherries for fresh ones?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which can make the filling too runny. You might want to add a little extra flour to help thicken the filling if using frozen cherries.
What can I use if I don’t have almond extract?
Vanilla extract is a perfect stand-in and gives a lovely warm flavor. If you want a subtle twist, a splash of lemon juice or zest can brighten the cherry filling.
Are these bars suitable for a gluten-free diet?
To make the bars gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the oats are certified gluten-free. This swap works well without sacrificing texture.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based butter substitute to replace the salted butter. The rest of the ingredients are naturally plant-based, so the bars remain just as delicious.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
You’ll want to watch for a golden-brown crumble topping and bubbling cherry filling around the edges. These visual cues mean the filling has thickened and the crust is perfectly baked.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe is a treat that never fails to bring smiles and warmth to any occasion. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a must-try dessert that feels both special and homey. Dive in and enjoy the wonderful combination of tart cherries and crumbly topping—you absolutely won’t regret it!
Print
Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cherry Crumble Bars are a delightful treat featuring a sweet and tangy cherry filling sandwiched between layers of buttery crumble made from oats, flour, and brown sugar. Perfectly baked to a golden finish, these bars offer a satisfying texture and rich flavor, ideal for dessert or a 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
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Prepare Cherry Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the pitted and quartered cherries with granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and vanilla or almond extract. Mix thoroughly and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Mix Crumble Base and 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 until every ingredient is 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, ensuring an even layer. Spoon the cherry filling evenly over this base, spreading to the edges. Then, sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture evenly over the cherries.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes until the crumble topping is lightly golden and the cherry filling bubbles around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cherry crumble bars to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes. Once cooled, cut into 16 bars. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy!
Notes
- For easier slicing and removal, make sure to line the pan with parchment paper extending over the edges.
- You can substitute almond extract for vanilla extract for a nutty twist.
- If fresh cherries are not available, frozen cherries can be used but ensure they are thawed and drained before mixing.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
