The moment you take a bite into a Cherry Crumble Bar, your taste buds will dance like they’ve just scored front-row tickets to their favorite concert. Imagine the sweet, tangy cherries bursting in your mouth, perfectly balanced by the buttery, crumbly topping that feels like a warm hug from grandma. These bars are not just a dessert; they are an experience, a celebration of all things cherry that will make your heart sing and your stomach rumble with delight.
Now, let’s be real: who doesn’t love a treat that combines the joy of fruit with the comforting crunch of crumble? Whether it’s a sunny picnic day or you’re simply trying to impress your friends during game night, these Cherry Crumble Bars are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Get ready to whip up something magical because once you try these, you’ll want to make them over and over again – and maybe even share!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Cherry Crumble Bars are incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- The flavor is a delightful mix of sweet and tart, making them irresistible.
- With their bright colors and appealing texture, they look stunning on any dessert table.
- Enjoy them as a snack or dress them up for special occasions; they’re versatile enough for any gathering.
Ingredients for Cherry Crumble Bars
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Cherries: Use ripe, juicy cherries for the best flavor; pit them for an enjoyable eating experience.
- Granulated Sugar: This helps sweeten the cherries and balances out their tartness; adjust according to taste.
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating that perfect crumble texture; it binds everything together beautifully.
- Oats: Use rolled oats to add chewiness and depth to your crumble topping.
- Unsalted Butter: Ensure it’s cold for the best crumble effect; it adds richness and flavor.
- Baking Powder: A must-have leavening agent that gives your bars the right lift.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a splash enhances the overall flavor profile, making everything more aromatic.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cherry Crumble Bars
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab an 8×8-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures your scrumptious creation won’t stick like glue.
Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine pitted cherries with granulated sugar. Toss them gently until they’re nicely coated. Set aside so they can marinate in their sugary goodness while you work on the crumble.
Step 3: Make the Crumble Base
In another bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until you achieve a crumbly texture reminiscent of sandy beaches. Stir in vanilla extract for that extra oomph!
Step 4: Assemble
Spread about two-thirds of the crumble mixture evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Press down firmly – think of it as giving it a good bear hug! Pour the cherry mixture over this base layer.
Step 5: Finish with Topping
Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture generously over those lovely cherries. It should look like you’ve dusted it with fairy crumbs – magical!
Step 6: Bake
Pop those bars into your preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes or until golden brown on top and bubbly around the edges. The aroma wafting through your home will have everyone asking if dinner is really just dessert!
Let them cool completely before slicing into squares (if you can resist). Transfer to plates and enjoy every last morsel of this cherry-filled delight!
You Must Know
- These Cherry Crumble Bars are not just a dessert; they’re a sweet hug for your taste buds.
- With a perfect balance of tart cherries and buttery crumble, they bring joy to any gathering or quiet afternoon snack.
- Plus, they are super easy to make!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping the cherry filling while you make the crumble mixture. Layer the cherries in your baking dish, followed by half of the crumble. Bake until golden, then top with the remaining crumble and finish baking for that perfect crunchy topping.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cherries for blueberries or peaches if you’re feeling adventurous. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to your crumble for an extra flavor boost. You can even throw in some chopped nuts for crunch!
Storing & Reheating
Store these Cherry Crumble Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator. No Bake Firecracker Cheesecake Reheat them in the oven briefly for that fresh-baked taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked Cherry Crumble Bars, ensure your cherries are pitted and chopped evenly.
- This avoids uneven cooking and ensures each bite is filled with fruit goodness.
- Also, letting them cool completely enhances their texture and flavor before serving.
The first time I made these Cherry Crumble Bars was during a family picnic. Everyone devoured them faster than I could say “seconds,” turning me into the family dessert hero overnight! For more inspiration, check out this Pecan Pie Bars recipe.
FAQs :
What are Cherry Crumble Bars?
Cherry Crumble Bars are a delightful dessert that features a sweet cherry filling sandwiched between layers of buttery crumble. They are easy to make and perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a snack. The combination of tart cherries and a crunchy topping creates a delicious contrast in texture and flavor, making them a favorite among dessert lovers. Festive Berry Trifle Cups Blueberry Cream Pie Bars You can serve them warm or cold, and they pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
How do I store Cherry Crumble Bars?
To store your Cherry Crumble Bars, let them cool completely before cutting into squares. Place the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for about a week. For even longer storage, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze them. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Can I use frozen cherries for Cherry Crumble Bars?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries for making Cherry Crumble Bars! Frozen cherries are often just as delicious as fresh ones and can be more convenient, especially out of season. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid from the cherries before using them in your recipe. Patriotic Popsicles Recipe This step prevents the filling from becoming too watery, ensuring that your crumble bars maintain their perfect texture.
What variations can I try with Cherry Crumble Bars?
You can customize your Cherry Crumble Bars in numerous ways! Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble topping for extra warmth and flavor. You could also mix in other fruits such as blueberries or raspberries to create a mixed berry version. For an added crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts like almonds or pecans into the crumble mixture. Experimenting with different flavors will keep things interesting! For more inspiration, check out this Cinnamon Pear Walnut Crumble recipe.
Conclusion for Cherry Crumble Bars :
In summary, Cherry Crumble Bars are a simple yet irresistible dessert option that combines a tart cherry filling with a sweet, crumbly topping. Ideal for any occasion, these bars are easy to prepare and can be stored for later enjoyment. By using fresh or frozen cherries and experimenting with ingredients, you can make this recipe uniquely yours. Whether served warm or cold, these delectable treats are sure to impress friends and family alike!
Cherry Crumble Bars
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 9 servings 1x
Description
Cherry Crumble Bars are a delightful dessert that harmoniously combines the tartness of fresh cherries with a buttery, crunchy topping. These bars are not only easy to prepare but also perfect for any occasion, from picnics to cozy nights in. Each bite offers a burst of flavor and texture that will leave you wanting more. Serve them warm with vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat!
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix pitted cherries with 1/4 cup sugar; set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking powder, salt, and remaining sugar. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in vanilla.
- Press two-thirds of the crumble mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish. Pour cherry mixture over it and top with the remaining crumble.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and bubbly around edges. Let cool before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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