If you are looking for a delicious, comforting treat that balances sweetness and tartness perfectly, this Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite. These bars feature a buttery oat crumble layered generously with juicy cherries that burst in every bite, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or craving a special homemade snack, the combination of crisp, golden crumble and vibrant cherry filling will impress everyone lucky enough to have a slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe calls for a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to form a harmonious blend of taste, texture, and color. Each element plays an essential role, from the rich, golden crumble topping to the sweet-tart cherry filling.
- Cherries (2 cups, pitted and quartered): Fresh and juicy, they provide the bright, luscious fruit base that makes these bars stand out.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the natural tartness of the cherries.
- All-purpose flour (3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons): Used both in the crumble and cherry filling, it binds everything together with a tender crumb.
- Vanilla or almond extract (1/2 teaspoon): A splash of extract enhances the flavor complexity, lifting the cherries’ taste.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats (1 cup): Provide a rustic, chewy texture that makes the crumble topping irresistible.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Brings a deep molasses sweetness and helps caramelize the crumble during baking.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch to brighten all the flavors and balance the sweetness.
- Salted butter (6 tablespoons, melted): Adds richness and helps the crumble achieve that perfect golden crispiness.
How to Make Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prep Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper if you have some on hand—this little trick makes removing the bars after baking much easier and keeps them intact.
Step 2: Make Cherry Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the quartered cherries, granulated sugar, two tablespoons of flour, and your choice of vanilla or almond extract. Gently toss everything together so the cherries are evenly coated. This mixture should rest for a moment to allow the flavors to meld and thicken up slightly, which ensures a luscious filling without too much liquid.
Step 3: Prepare Crumble Topping
Next, in a separate bowl, stir together the rolled oats, 3/4 cup flour, brown sugar, and salt. Pour the melted salted butter over the dry mixture, stirring thoroughly until the crumble is evenly moistened and no dry patches remain. This mix will form both the base and the fantastic crunchy topping of your bars.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan, creating an even and compact base layer. Then, carefully spoon the cherry filling over the crust, spreading it out to cover every corner. Finish by sprinkling the remaining crumble mixture evenly over the top. This layering is key to getting that delightful contrast between crumbly texture and gooey fruit.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your bars in the preheated oven for around 20 minutes, or until you see the crumble topping turning a lovely golden brown and the cherry filling bubbling gently at the edges. This signals everything is cooked perfectly and packed with flavor.
Step 6: Cool and Cut
Once baked, let the cherry crumble bars cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes. Cooling allows the filling to set and makes cutting easier. Afterward, lift them out—thanks to the parchment lining—and slice into 16 scrumptious bars. Each piece will reveal that wonderful layered beauty of golden crumble and vibrant cherry filling.
How to Serve Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe
Garnishes
While these bars are absolutely delightful on their own, a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of freshly whipped cream takes them to the next level. For something fruity and fresh, add a few whole cherries or a sprig of mint for color contrast and an inviting aroma.
Side Dishes
Pairing these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm custard creates a comforting dessert experience. If you’re enjoying them for breakfast or brunch, a side of Greek yogurt complements the cherries’ tartness beautifully while adding creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, arrange the bars on a pretty platter garnished with edible flowers or seasonal fruit slices. You can also serve them as mini bite-sized squares atop wooden skewers alongside coffee or tea for a charming and easy grab-and-go option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe pieces in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Proper storage ensures they stay fresh and maintain their delightful texture.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing them in the freezer. They will keep wonderfully for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To revive the crispy crumble and warm the cherry filling, reheat individual bars in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes. This quick step refreshes their texture and flavor, making them taste just like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries for this Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which could make the bars soggy. Tossing the cherries with a bit of extra flour helps absorb that moisture during baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend of equal measurement. Make sure your oats are certified gluten-free as well to keep the recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I use another fruit instead of cherries?
Definitely! This recipe is versatile and works well with berries, peaches, or even rhubarb. Just keep in mind that different fruits might require slight adjustments in sugar to balance sweetness and tartness.
How do I prevent the crumble topping from burning?
Keep an eye on the baking time, especially towards the end. If the topping starts browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the bars with foil for the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning while allowing the filling to cook through.
Can I make the crumble topping without oats?
While oats add great texture and heartiness, you can omit them if needed. Simply increase the flour proportion slightly and add a touch more butter for richness, but keep in mind the texture will be less chewy and more crumbly.
Final Thoughts
This Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels homemade and heartwarming with every bite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or to impress guests at a potluck, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfied sighs. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself reaching for the recipe again and again!
Print
Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 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 feature a luscious cherry filling nestled between layers of a buttery, oat-studded crumble. Perfectly balanced with sweet and tart flavors, these bars bake to a golden finish, making a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups (300 g) cherries, pitted and quartered (about 60 cherries)
- 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 to facilitate easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Make Cherry Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the pitted and quartered cherries, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and vanilla or almond extract. Mix thoroughly to coat the cherries evenly and set aside to allow the flavors to blend.
- 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 dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until the mixture is evenly moistened without any dry clumps.
- Assemble Bars: Firmly press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking pan to create an even base layer. Spoon the cherry filling evenly over the base, spreading it to all edges. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture evenly over the top of the cherries.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the crumble topping turns lightly golden and the cherry filling bubbles around the edges.
- Cool & Serve: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes. Once cooled, cut the cherry crumble into 16 bars. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For a nuttier flavor, consider adding 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumble mixture.
- If fresh cherries are unavailable, frozen cherries can be used. Thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
- The bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving to refresh the texture.
- Feel free to substitute almond extract with vanilla for a classic flavor or skip it altogether.
