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
Scale
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.
