Description
Delight in these Cherry Crumble Bars featuring a luscious cherry filling sandwiched between layers of buttery oat crumble. Perfectly balanced with a hint of vanilla or almond extract, this dessert offers a comforting texture and vibrant flavor, ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Cherry Filling
- 2 cups (300 g) cherries, pitted and quartered (about 60)
- 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
- Preheat Oven: 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.
- Prepare the Cherry Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the pitted and quartered cherries, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and vanilla or almond extract. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Make the Crumble Mixture: In a separate medium bowl, stir together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt. Pour the melted salted butter over the 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 layer. Spoon the cherry filling evenly over the base, spreading it to the edges. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top of the cherries in an even layer.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the crumble topping is lightly golden and the cherry filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cherry crumble bars cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes. Once cooled, cut into 16 bars and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For easier slicing, refrigerate the bars after cooling.
- Use fresh or frozen cherries; if using frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid before preparing.
- Almond extract adds a lovely nutty aroma but can be omitted if preferred.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
