Cherry crumble bars are the kind of dessert that makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside, like a cozy hug from your grandma on a rainy day. Picture this: a buttery, crumbly base topped with sweet-tart cherries, all kissed with cinnamon and love. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make you feel like a baking superstar, even if the last thing you baked was toast. These bars are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a picnic in the park or an impromptu dessert party where you want to impress and delight your friends.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Cherry Crumble Bars
- How to Make Cherry Crumble Bars
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What are Cherry Crumble Bars?
- How do I store Cherry Crumble Bars?
- Can I use frozen cherries for Cherry Crumble Bars?
- What variations can I try with Cherry Crumble Bars?
- Conclusion for Cherry Crumble Bars :
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now, let’s be real: who doesn’t love a dessert that’s both delicious and easy to whip up? Cherry crumble bars have this magical ability to transform even the most mundane days into something special. I remember the first time I made these bars; I was trying to impress my in-laws (you know how that goes), and they devoured them like they hadn’t eaten in days! So grab your apron, because you’re about to embark on a cherry-filled adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These cherry crumble bars are incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous bake-offs.
- Their delightful flavor profile balances sweetness with a hint of tartness from the cherries.
- Visually appealing with their golden crust and vibrant cherry filling, they look stunning on any dessert table.
- Versatile enough to enjoy warm or chilled, they make a fantastic treat any time of year!
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; they should be sweet but slightly tart.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweeten those cherries just right; adjust based on how sweet your fruit is.
- All-Purpose Flour: This will form the base of our crumble; sifted flour gives a lighter texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Opt for cold butter; it creates flakiness in the crust when mixed properly.
- Oats: Old-fashioned oats add texture and heartiness to our crumble topping.
For the Spices:
- Cinnamon: A dash of cinnamon enhances the flavors; use fresh ground for extra warmth.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
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
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, get out an 8×8-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine pitted and halved fresh cherries with granulated sugar and cinnamon. Toss them gently so every cherry gets coated with sugary goodness. Set aside while we work on our crust.
Step 3: Make the Crust
In another bowl, mix together flour, oats, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until it resembles coarse crumbs—think sandy beach vibes but edible!
Step 4: Assemble
Press half of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Next, spread those beautiful cherry filling over it evenly! Top with remaining crumb mixture like you’re sprinkling fairy dust—make sure to cover those cherries well.
Step 5: Bake
Pop your masterpiece into the oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes or until it turns golden brown. The smell will be downright hypnotizing!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove from oven and let cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm with ice cream if you’re feeling extra fancy or chill for later indulgence!
So there you have it—a delightful batch of cherry crumble bars that are sure to steal the show! Whether shared at gatherings or savored alone (we won’t tell), these bars promise an explosion of flavor in every bite! Enjoy!
You Must Know
- These cherry crumble bars are not just a delightful treat; they’re a sweet escape from the ordinary.
- Easy to whip up and perfect for any occasion, these bars will dazzle your taste buds while making your kitchen smell like a cherry orchard in bloom.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, mix the crust ingredients first, then prepare the cherry filling. Assemble everything in a pan and pop it in the oven for a blissful bake.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cherries for your favorite fruit like blueberries or peaches. Sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for extra warmth. You can even add nuts for crunch if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for about a week. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy them chilled.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh cherries when possible; frozen ones can make the filling watery.
- Always let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.
- For an extra touch, drizzle some melted chocolate over the top.
Sometimes I remember baking these cherry crumble bars with my grandmother on lazy Sunday afternoons, her laughter echoing through the kitchen as we tried (and failed) to keep our hands off them before they cooled down.
FAQs :
What are Cherry Crumble Bars?
Cherry Crumble Bars are a delightful dessert made with a buttery crumble topping over a sweet, tart cherry filling. They combine the flavors of fresh cherries with a crumbly texture, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. These bars are easy to bake and can be served warm or cold, often paired with ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence.
How do I store Cherry Crumble Bars?
To store Cherry Crumble Bars, allow them to cool completely after baking. Once cooled, you can cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them for up to a week or freezing for up to three months. Just ensure to thaw them in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.
Can I use frozen cherries for Cherry Crumble Bars?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen cherries for your Cherry Crumble Bars! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mixing them into the filling. This will help prevent the bars from becoming too watery. Frozen cherries may slightly alter the texture but will still provide delicious flavor in your crumble bars!
What variations can I try with Cherry Crumble Bars?
You can experiment with various flavors in your Cherry Crumble Bars by adding different fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry version. Incorporating spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg into the crumble mixture adds warmth and depth. Additionally, consider swapping out part of the flour for almond flour for a nutty twist on this classic recipe!
Conclusion for Cherry Crumble Bars :
In conclusion, Cherry Crumble Bars are an easy and delicious dessert that combines sweet cherry filling with a crumbly topping. They are versatile enough to accommodate various fruits and flavors while remaining simple to prepare. Storing these treats is also straightforward, ensuring they maintain their delicious taste over time. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, these bars are sure to please anyone’s palate!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Cherry Crumble Bars
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: About 16 servings 1x
Description
Cherry crumble bars are a delectable treat featuring a buttery crust and sweet-tart cherry filling. Perfect for any occasion, they’re easy to make and sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, sugar, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press half of this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix pitted cherries with sugar and cinnamon until evenly coated.
- Spread the cherry mixture over the crust in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture on top of the cherries.
- Bake in preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (50g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
