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Cherry Crumble Bars Delightfully Simple Dessert Recipe

by on March 3, 2025

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If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s both simple and delicious, you’ve come to the right place! Cherry crumble bars are my go-to dessert for any occasion. They’re quick to make, and the best part is you can enjoy them warm or cold. In this article, I’ll guide you through easy steps, share key tips, and offer fun variations to elevate your baking game. Let’s dive into this delightful dessert together!

- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 cup rolled oats - 1/2 cup brown sugar - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon almond extract - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon corn starch You can swap fresh cherries for frozen ones if needed. Just remember to thaw and drain them first. If you want a healthier twist, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Maple syrup can replace brown sugar for a different flavor. You can also use coconut oil in place of the butter for a dairy-free option. When picking fresh cherries, look for firm, shiny ones. Avoid those with blemishes or soft spots. If you choose frozen cherries, ensure they are unsweetened and without added sauces. Frozen cherries save time and are great when fresh ones are out of season. Both options work well in these crumble bars. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, take an 8x8 inch baking pan and grease it well. Line it with parchment paper, leaving some paper hanging over the edges. This makes it easy to lift out the bars later. Now, let’s prepare the cherries. In a medium bowl, mix 2 cups of pitted cherries with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of corn starch. Stir gently to coat all the cherries. Set this aside and let it marinate for about 10 minutes. This helps the cherries release their juices, making them super tasty. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients together well. Next, pour in 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. Stir until you get a crumbly mixture that holds together. Take about two-thirds of the crumble mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This will be your crust. Make sure it’s even and compact. Now, spread the marinated cherries evenly over the crust. Don’t forget to include all those yummy juices! Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top of the cherries. Make sure the cherries are partially covered. This will create a nice, crunchy topping. Bake your creation in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and the cherries to bubble. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this time! Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for at least 20 minutes. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. This makes serving so much easier. Cut the bars into squares. You can serve them warm for a soft, gooey treat or refrigerate them for a firmer texture. They taste great either way! Enjoy your cherry crumble bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat. To get the best crumble, use cold butter. Cut it into small cubes. This helps the crust stay flaky. Mix the butter into the dry ingredients with your fingers. Stop when the mix looks like wet sand. This will create a nice crunch. One big mistake is overmixing. When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. If you mix too much, the bars become tough. Another mistake is using too much sugar. The cherries are sweet, so adjust sugar to taste. Lastly, don’t skip the corn starch. It thickens the cherry filling and keeps it from being runny. To make your bars even better, try adding nuts. Chopped almonds or walnuts add a nice crunch. You can also add spices like cinnamon for warmth. For a twist, use lemon zest. It brightens the cherry flavor. If you want a different taste, swap cherries for other fruits, like blueberries or peaches. Pro Tips Tip Title: Use Fresh Cherries for Best Flavor: While frozen cherries work, fresh cherries offer a brighter flavor and better texture in these crumble bars. Tip Title: Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely in the pan will help them set properly and make cutting easier. Tip Title: Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble mixture for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cherries beautifully. Tip Title: Store for Later: These bars can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead dessert for gatherings. {{image_2}} You can easily make vegan cherry crumble bars. Replace the butter with coconut oil. Use a plant-based sugar, like coconut sugar. You can also swap the almond extract with more vanilla if you like. The cherries will still shine through. Just follow the same recipe steps. To make gluten-free cherry crumble bars, use gluten-free flour. Almond flour or oat flour works well. Make sure your oats are gluten-free too. This way, the bars will still taste great and be safe for those with gluten issues. They will be just as tasty and crumbly. Get creative with toppings! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch. Sprinkle some cinnamon for extra flavor. Shredded coconut can give a tropical twist. For a fun touch, try drizzling melted chocolate on top. These small changes can make your bars unique and exciting! To keep your cherry crumble bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. Layer parchment paper between the bars to prevent sticking. This method helps maintain their crumbly texture. You can keep them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them. They will stay good for about a week in the fridge. Freezing is a great way to save your cherry crumble bars. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This method prevents freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you want to enjoy a bar, just take one out. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Cherry crumble bars taste best fresh but last well for a week in the fridge. If you freeze them, they keep their flavor and texture. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. This warms it up nicely. You can also reheat them in the oven. Set the oven to 300°F (150°C) and heat for about 10 minutes. This method keeps them crispy on top. Enjoy your cherry crumble bars warm! Yes, you can use other fruits. Berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries work well. You can also try peaches or apples for a different flavor. Just remember to adjust the sugar based on the fruit's sweetness. You want to keep the balance right in your dessert. Look for a golden brown top. The cherries should be bubbling around the edges. This usually takes about 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F. You can also check the center with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your bars are ready. These bars are tasty on their own, but you can enhance them. Serve them with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a special treat. You can also add some fresh mint for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy them warm or chilled! This blog post covered how to make cherry crumble bars. We discussed ingredient choices, baking steps, and cooling tips. I shared best practices to achieve the perfect texture and common mistakes to avoid. You can also try vegan or gluten-free versions, and consider creative toppings for variety. Remember how to store, freeze, and reheat your bars. With these insights, you're now ready to create delicious cherry crumble bars any time! Enjoy experimenting in your kitchen!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Deliciously Sweet: The combination of fresh or frozen cherries with the crumbly topping creates a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness in every bite.
  2. Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal effort, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
  3. Versatile Treat: These cherry crumble bars can be enjoyed warm, cold, or even as a dessert with a scoop of ice cream, making them a versatile option for any occasion.
  4. Perfect for Sharing: With 9 generous servings, these bars are ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or simply sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1 cup rolled oats

– 1/2 cup brown sugar

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1 teaspoon corn starch

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

You can swap fresh cherries for frozen ones if needed. Just remember to thaw and drain them first. If you want a healthier twist, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Maple syrup can replace brown sugar for a different flavor. You can also use coconut oil in place of the butter for a dairy-free option.

Tips for Selecting Cherries (Fresh vs. Frozen)

When picking fresh cherries, look for firm, shiny ones. Avoid those with blemishes or soft spots. If you choose frozen cherries, ensure they are unsweetened and without added sauces. Frozen cherries save time and are great when fresh ones are out of season. Both options work well in these crumble bars.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, take an 8×8 inch baking pan and grease it well. Line it with parchment paper, leaving some paper hanging over the edges. This makes it easy to lift out the bars later.

Now, let’s prepare the cherries. In a medium bowl, mix 2 cups of pitted cherries with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of corn starch. Stir gently to coat all the cherries. Set this aside and let it marinate for about 10 minutes. This helps the cherries release their juices, making them super tasty.

In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients together well.

Next, pour in 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. Stir until you get a crumbly mixture that holds together.

Baking Process

Take about two-thirds of the crumble mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This will be your crust. Make sure it’s even and compact. Now, spread the marinated cherries evenly over the crust. Don’t forget to include all those yummy juices!

Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top of the cherries. Make sure the cherries are partially covered. This will create a nice, crunchy topping.

Bake your creation in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and the cherries to bubble. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this time!

Cooling and Serving Suggestions

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for at least 20 minutes. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. This makes serving so much easier.

Cut the bars into squares. You can serve them warm for a soft, gooey treat or refrigerate them for a firmer texture. They taste great either way! Enjoy your cherry crumble bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Perfect Crumble Texture

To get the best crumble, use cold butter. Cut it into small cubes. This helps the crust stay flaky. Mix the butter into the dry ingredients with your fingers. Stop when the mix looks like wet sand. This will create a nice crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One big mistake is overmixing. When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. If you mix too much, the bars become tough. Another mistake is using too much sugar. The cherries are sweet, so adjust sugar to taste. Lastly, don’t skip the corn starch. It thickens the cherry filling and keeps it from being runny.

Enhancing Flavor with Additional Ingredients

To make your bars even better, try adding nuts. Chopped almonds or walnuts add a nice crunch. You can also add spices like cinnamon for warmth. For a twist, use lemon zest. It brightens the cherry flavor. If you want a different taste, swap cherries for other fruits, like blueberries or peaches.

Pro Tips

  1. Tip Title: Use Fresh Cherries for Best Flavor: While frozen cherries work, fresh cherries offer a brighter flavor and better texture in these crumble bars.
  2. Tip Title: Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely in the pan will help them set properly and make cutting easier.
  3. Tip Title: Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble mixture for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cherries beautifully.
  4. Tip Title: Store for Later: These bars can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead dessert for gatherings.

Variations

Vegan Cherry Crumble Bars

You can easily make vegan cherry crumble bars. Replace the butter with coconut oil. Use a plant-based sugar, like coconut sugar. You can also swap the almond extract with more vanilla if you like. The cherries will still shine through. Just follow the same recipe steps.

Gluten-Free Options

To make gluten-free cherry crumble bars, use gluten-free flour. Almond flour or oat flour works well. Make sure your oats are gluten-free too. This way, the bars will still taste great and be safe for those with gluten issues. They will be just as tasty and crumbly.

Creative Toppings and Add-Ins

Get creative with toppings! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch. Sprinkle some cinnamon for extra flavor. Shredded coconut can give a tropical twist. For a fun touch, try drizzling melted chocolate on top. These small changes can make your bars unique and exciting!

Storage Info

How to Store Cherry Crumble Bars

To keep your cherry crumble bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. Layer parchment paper between the bars to prevent sticking. This method helps maintain their crumbly texture. You can keep them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them. They will stay good for about a week in the fridge.

Freezing Instructions

Freezing is a great way to save your cherry crumble bars. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This method prevents freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you want to enjoy a bar, just take one out. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Shelf Life and Reheating Tips

Cherry crumble bars taste best fresh but last well for a week in the fridge. If you freeze them, they keep their flavor and texture. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. This warms it up nicely. You can also reheat them in the oven. Set the oven to 300°F (150°C) and heat for about 10 minutes. This method keeps them crispy on top. Enjoy your cherry crumble bars warm!

FAQs

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes, you can use other fruits. Berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries work well. You can also try peaches or apples for a different flavor. Just remember to adjust the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness. You want to keep the balance right in your dessert.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

Look for a golden brown top. The cherries should be bubbling around the edges. This usually takes about 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F. You can also check the center with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your bars are ready.

What can I serve with Cherry Crumble Bars?

These bars are tasty on their own, but you can enhance them. Serve them with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a special treat. You can also add some fresh mint for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy them warm or chilled!

This blog post covered how to make cherry crumble bars. We discussed ingredient choices, baking steps, and cooling tips. I shared best practices to achieve the perfect texture and common mistakes to avoid. You can also try vegan or gluten-free versions, and consider creative toppings for variety. Remember how to store, freeze, and reheat your bars. With these insights, you’re now ready to create delicious cherry crumble bars any time! Enjoy experimenting in your kitche

- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 cup rolled oats - 1/2 cup brown sugar - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon almond extract - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon corn starch You can swap fresh cherries for frozen ones if needed. Just remember to thaw and drain them first. If you want a healthier twist, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Maple syrup can replace brown sugar for a different flavor. You can also use coconut oil in place of the butter for a dairy-free option. When picking fresh cherries, look for firm, shiny ones. Avoid those with blemishes or soft spots. If you choose frozen cherries, ensure they are unsweetened and without added sauces. Frozen cherries save time and are great when fresh ones are out of season. Both options work well in these crumble bars. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, take an 8x8 inch baking pan and grease it well. Line it with parchment paper, leaving some paper hanging over the edges. This makes it easy to lift out the bars later. Now, let’s prepare the cherries. In a medium bowl, mix 2 cups of pitted cherries with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of corn starch. Stir gently to coat all the cherries. Set this aside and let it marinate for about 10 minutes. This helps the cherries release their juices, making them super tasty. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix these dry ingredients together well. Next, pour in 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. Stir until you get a crumbly mixture that holds together. Take about two-thirds of the crumble mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This will be your crust. Make sure it’s even and compact. Now, spread the marinated cherries evenly over the crust. Don’t forget to include all those yummy juices! Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top of the cherries. Make sure the cherries are partially covered. This will create a nice, crunchy topping. Bake your creation in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and the cherries to bubble. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this time! Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for at least 20 minutes. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. This makes serving so much easier. Cut the bars into squares. You can serve them warm for a soft, gooey treat or refrigerate them for a firmer texture. They taste great either way! Enjoy your cherry crumble bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat. To get the best crumble, use cold butter. Cut it into small cubes. This helps the crust stay flaky. Mix the butter into the dry ingredients with your fingers. Stop when the mix looks like wet sand. This will create a nice crunch. One big mistake is overmixing. When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. If you mix too much, the bars become tough. Another mistake is using too much sugar. The cherries are sweet, so adjust sugar to taste. Lastly, don’t skip the corn starch. It thickens the cherry filling and keeps it from being runny. To make your bars even better, try adding nuts. Chopped almonds or walnuts add a nice crunch. You can also add spices like cinnamon for warmth. For a twist, use lemon zest. It brightens the cherry flavor. If you want a different taste, swap cherries for other fruits, like blueberries or peaches. Pro Tips Tip Title: Use Fresh Cherries for Best Flavor: While frozen cherries work, fresh cherries offer a brighter flavor and better texture in these crumble bars. Tip Title: Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely in the pan will help them set properly and make cutting easier. Tip Title: Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble mixture for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cherries beautifully. Tip Title: Store for Later: These bars can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead dessert for gatherings. {{image_2}} You can easily make vegan cherry crumble bars. Replace the butter with coconut oil. Use a plant-based sugar, like coconut sugar. You can also swap the almond extract with more vanilla if you like. The cherries will still shine through. Just follow the same recipe steps. To make gluten-free cherry crumble bars, use gluten-free flour. Almond flour or oat flour works well. Make sure your oats are gluten-free too. This way, the bars will still taste great and be safe for those with gluten issues. They will be just as tasty and crumbly. Get creative with toppings! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch. Sprinkle some cinnamon for extra flavor. Shredded coconut can give a tropical twist. For a fun touch, try drizzling melted chocolate on top. These small changes can make your bars unique and exciting! To keep your cherry crumble bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. Layer parchment paper between the bars to prevent sticking. This method helps maintain their crumbly texture. You can keep them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them. They will stay good for about a week in the fridge. Freezing is a great way to save your cherry crumble bars. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This method prevents freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you want to enjoy a bar, just take one out. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Cherry crumble bars taste best fresh but last well for a week in the fridge. If you freeze them, they keep their flavor and texture. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. This warms it up nicely. You can also reheat them in the oven. Set the oven to 300°F (150°C) and heat for about 10 minutes. This method keeps them crispy on top. Enjoy your cherry crumble bars warm! Yes, you can use other fruits. Berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries work well. You can also try peaches or apples for a different flavor. Just remember to adjust the sugar based on the fruit's sweetness. You want to keep the balance right in your dessert. Look for a golden brown top. The cherries should be bubbling around the edges. This usually takes about 30 to 35 minutes at 350°F. You can also check the center with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your bars are ready. These bars are tasty on their own, but you can enhance them. Serve them with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a special treat. You can also add some fresh mint for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy them warm or chilled! This blog post covered how to make cherry crumble bars. We discussed ingredient choices, baking steps, and cooling tips. I shared best practices to achieve the perfect texture and common mistakes to avoid. You can also try vegan or gluten-free versions, and consider creative toppings for variety. Remember how to store, freeze, and reheat your bars. With these insights, you're now ready to create delicious cherry crumble bars any time! Enjoy experimenting in your kitchen!

Cherry Crumble Bars

Delicious cherry crumble bars with a buttery oat crust.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 9
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 0.5 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon corn starch

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal later.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, and corn starch. Toss until the cherries are evenly coated, then set aside to marinate for 10 minutes.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
  • Pour the melted butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract into the dry mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are combined and the mixture is crumbly.
  • Press approximately two-thirds of the crumble mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a crust.
  • Evenly spread the marinated cherries over the crust, then sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top, ensuring the cherries are partially covered.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cherries are bubbling.
  • Remove from the oven and allow the crumble bars to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang.
  • Cut into squares and serve warm, or refrigerate for a firmer texture.

Notes

Serve warm or refrigerate for a firmer texture.
Keyword bars, cherry, crumble, dessert

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