If you’re searching for a delightful treat that combines sweet, tangy cherries with a buttery, crunchy topping, you’ve just found it. This Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe is a perfect balance of fruity freshness and crumbly goodness, making it an irresistible snack or dessert any time of the day. With the vibrant cherry filling nestled between layers of oat-studded crumble, each bite feels comforting, nostalgic, and simply unforgettable. Whether you’re serving it up for a casual get-together or craving something special to brighten your afternoon, these bars deliver joy in every morsel.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony each ingredient brings. From the tart cherries that bring a burst of color and flavor to the oats and brown sugar that create that perfect crunchy topping, every component plays an essential role in creating these delicious Cherry Crumble Bars.
- Cherries (2 cups, pitted and quartered): Fresh, juicy cherries lend the bright fruitiness and natural tartness that form the heart of the filling.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the cherries’ natural tart.
- All-purpose flour (3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons): Essential for the crumble’s structure and thickening the cherry filling to perfection.
- Vanilla or almond extract (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses a subtle depth of flavor that elevates the whole bar.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats (1 cup): Brings a chewy texture and rustic crunch to the crumble topping.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Offers a rich, caramel-like sweetness that blends beautifully with the oats and butter.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors.
- Salted butter (6 tablespoons, melted): The golden glue that holds the crumble topping together and adds irresistible richness.
How to Make Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prep Oven & Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper to make for easy removal and cleaner slicing later on. This prep step helps everything bake evenly and keeps cleanup simple.
Step 2: Make Cherry Filling
In a medium bowl, toss together the pitted and quartered cherries with granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, and the vanilla or almond extract you’ve chosen. This mixture will thicken as it bakes, giving you that luscious, jammy cherry layer in the bars. Set the filling aside to let the flavors mingle while you prepare the topping.
Step 3: Prepare Crumble Topping
Next, combine the rolled oats, 3/4 cup flour, brown sugar, and salt in another bowl. Pour melted salted butter over the mixture and stir thoroughly. You want every bit of the oat mixture lightly coated and clumping just enough to create that satisfying crumble texture.
Step 4: Assemble Bars
Press about two-thirds of the crumble mixture firmly into the bottom of your lined pan. This forms a sturdy, buttery crust for the bars. Spoon the cherry filling evenly over this base, spreading it right to the edges for maximum fruit coverage. Finish by sprinkling the remaining crumble mixture on top for that golden, crisp crown.
Step 5: Bake
Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crumble topping turns a lovely light golden color and you see the cherry filling bubbling around the edges—an inviting sight and a sure sign of deliciousness on its way.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Once baked, let the bars cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes so the filling sets up nicely and the bars hold their shape when cut. Slice into 16 squares and enjoy warm or at room temperature, either way, these bars are a treat that’s hard to resist!
How to Serve Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To make each serving feel extra special, top your cherry crumble bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty, delicate touch that enhances the visual appeal without overpowering the flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars alongside a fresh green salad or a cheese platter for a balanced snack or dessert spread during gatherings. Their fruity sweetness complements savory or tangy flavors beautifully, making for a versatile accompaniment.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, try layering chunks of these bars with whipped yogurt and fresh cherries in parfait glasses. It creates a stunning presentation and adds a refreshing variation in texture and temperature. You can also cut them into bite-sized squares for easy grab-and-go treats at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe sealed tightly in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to a week. This helps maintain the bars’ moist filling and crisp topping, so each bite stays just as delightful as the first.
Freezing
If you want to savor these bars later, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze beautifully for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy a quick and delicious treat anytime you crave.
Reheating
To bring the bars back to life after chilling or freezing, simply warm them in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through. This revives their crispy crumble topping and gooey cherry center perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well first to avoid excess moisture, which can make the bars soggy.
What can I use instead of vanilla extract?
Almond extract is a wonderful alternative that pairs beautifully with cherries, adding a slightly nutty note to the flavor.
Are these bars gluten-free?
This particular Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe calls for all-purpose flour, but you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend if needed—just ensure it’s a 1:1 replacement to maintain texture.
Can I make these bars dairy-free?
Yes! Swap out the salted butter for a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil to keep the richness without dairy.
How long do these bars last?
When stored properly, these bars stay fresh and delicious for up to a week in the fridge, making them a great make-ahead snack or dessert.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about a homemade Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe that invites you to slow down, savor, and share. From the joyful burst of juicy cherries to the satisfyingly crunchy topping, each bite feels like a warm hug. If you’re craving a treat that’s both simple to make and wholly delightful, give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to dessert to brighten up any day.
Print
Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these Cherry Crumble Bars, combining a luscious cherry filling with a buttery oat crumble topping. Perfectly baked to achieve a golden crust with a bubbling, sweet cherry center, these bars make an excellent treat for dessert or snack time. Easy to prepare and ideal for sharing, they offer a delightful balance of tart cherries and sweet, crunchy crumble in every bite.
Ingredients
Cherry 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 for easy removal after baking, or lightly grease it.
- Make Cherry Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the pitted and quartered cherries with granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and vanilla or almond extract. Stir well to ensure the cherries are evenly coated and set aside to let flavors meld.
- Prepare Crumble Topping: In another medium bowl, mix the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Pour the melted salted butter over this mixture and stir thoroughly until everything 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, creating an even, compact base layer. Spoon the cherry filling evenly over this base, spreading it to the edges. Then sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture evenly over the top of the cherries to form the topping.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the crumb topping turns lightly golden and the cherry filling begins to bubble around the edges.
- Cool & Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the cherry crumble bars to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes. Once cooled, cut into 16 bars and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delightful cherry treat!
Notes
- For easier removal from the pan, line it with parchment paper with some overhang on the sides.
- Use fresh or frozen cherries; if using frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid before preparing.
- Almond extract enhances the cherry flavor but can be substituted with vanilla extract for a milder taste.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These bars can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
