There’s something undeniably delightful about the first bite of a homemade Cherry Crumble Bar. As the juicy tartness of fresh cherries mingles with the crisp, buttery crumble, you’re instantly transported to sunlit picnics and cozy afternoons. I can still picture the day I decided to turn a simple bag of cherries into this irresistible treat. With just a few ingredients and minimal fuss, these bars have become my go-to for both spontaneous baking sessions and welcoming guests.
Perfect for sharing, they bring a touch of nostalgia while satisfying any sweet tooth craving. Whether you’re looking to impress friends or simply wish to indulge after a long day, these Cherry Crumble Bars are the ideal answer. Plus, with only 50 minutes from start to finish, you won’t even have to break a sweat! Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to create moments of joy in your kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Cherry Crumble Bars
- These Cherry Crumble Bars are a breeze to make, taking just 50 minutes from prep to serving.
- The incredible combination of sweet cherries and buttery crumble offers a flavor experience that’s absolutely irresistible.
- Their versatility means they can be enjoyed as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat.
- With their stunning golden-brown topping and vibrant cherry filling, they are sure to impress any crowd at gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Cherry Crumble Bars Ingredients
• Get ready for a sweet treat!
For the Filling
- Fresh pitted cherries – the star ingredient that delivers a juicy burst of flavor.
- Granulated sugar – enhances the natural sweetness of the cherries; adjust to taste.
For the Crumble
- All-purpose flour – creates the base for your crispy topping and buttery texture.
- Rolled oats – adds a wholesome chewiness and nuttiness to the crumble; for gluten-free, substitute with almond flour.
- Unsalted butter – ensures the crumble is rich and flavorful; coconut oil can be an excellent non-dairy alternative.
- Baking powder – helps the crumble achieve that perfect lightness; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
These ingredients combine harmoniously to create delightful Cherry Crumble Bars that you’ll want to enjoy again and again!
How to Make Cherry Crumble Bars
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper, ensuring an easy release after baking.
Toss the fresh pitted cherries in a mixing bowl with ¼ cup of sugar. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes, letting the cherries release their natural juices for a delicious filling.
Combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, remaining sugar, baking powder, and melted butter in a separate bowl. Mix until the mixture is crumbly, reminiscent of sandy pebbles.
Press half of the crumble mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. This will serve as a delicious base for your cherry filling.
Pour the cherry filling over the crumb base, spreading it out evenly. Then, top it with the remaining crumble mixture, ensuring the cherries are well-covered.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and fragrant. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan.
Slice the cooled bars into squares for serving. Enjoy the delightful texture and flavors!
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cherry Crumble Bars Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Cherry Crumble Bars, customizing them to match your taste or dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly option.
- Vegan: Use melted coconut oil instead of butter and maple syrup in place of granulated sugar for a plant-based treat.
- Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, to the crumble for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
- Berry Medley: Mix in a variety of berries like blueberries or raspberries to create a colorful and flavorful twist on the classic recipe.
- Spiced Up: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the crumble for a warm, cozy flavor that pairs beautifully with cherries. A little goes a long way to uplift the taste!
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled bars for a touch of decadence that both kids and adults will love.
- Extra Fruity: Fold in a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest to the cherry mixture for a zesty, refreshing kick that brightens the bars.
- Savory Spin: Add a pinch of sea salt to the crumble for a sweet and salty combination that’s simply irresistible.
With these variations, your Cherry Crumble Bars will never be boring! Enjoy experimenting and sharing your creations.
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Crumble Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat without the last-minute rush! You can prep the crumble mixture up to 3 days in advance by combining the flour, oats, sugar, baking powder, and melted butter, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cherry filling can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead by tossing the cherries with sugar and refrigerating them to enhance their flavor. When you’re ready to bake, simply press the crumble into the pan, add the cherries, and top it off with the remaining crumble before baking. This way, you’ll have just as delightful Cherry Crumble Bars with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Cherry Crumble Bars?
Indulging in sweet Cherry Crumble Bars is always a treat, but rounding out your meal can elevate the experience even more.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing adds a creamy contrast, enhancing the warm cherries with cool, sweet satisfaction.
- Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it complements the dense crumble while adding a luxurious finish to each bite.
- Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee balances the sweetness, making it perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or after dinner delight.
- Minted Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightened with mint pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness of the bars.
- Almond Milkshake: Creamy and nutty, a milkshake provides a delightful treat that harmonizes well with the cherry flavors.
- Spiced Chai Tea: The warmth and spices of chai add a cozy touch, perfect alongside a sweet snack like crumble bars.
- Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle enhances each bar, introducing a luxurious bitterness that balances the sweetness.
- Caramel Sauce: Smooth and decadent, caramel adds a further layer of flavor, making every bite even more indulgent.
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Crumble Bars
Room Temperature: Let the bars cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the Cherry Crumble Bars in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure they’re covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay tasty for up to 3 months!
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a toaster oven for a crispy topping.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Cherry Crumble Bars, be sure to pit the cherries properly to avoid any unpleasant bites.
- If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can adjust the amount of sugar based on the tartness of your cherries.
- To achieve a perfectly crumbly texture, mix the dry ingredients well before adding the melted butter for even distribution.
- Remember to let the bars cool completely in the pan to help them set and make slicing easier without crumbling apart.
Cherry Crumble Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe cherries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for cherries that are bright in color with a firm texture. They should have a vibrant red or deep purple hue. Avoid any with dark spots all over or that feel squishy, as these might be overripe.
How should I store leftover Cherry Crumble Bars?
For room temperature storage, let the bars cool completely and place them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them, covered, for up to a week, ensuring they don’t dry out.
Can I freeze Cherry Crumble Bars?
Very much so! To freeze, individually wrap each bar in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This prevents freezer burn and keeps them delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as desired.
What can I do if my crumble isn’t coming together?
If your crumble feels too dry, try adding a tablespoon of cold water or an extra splash of melted butter until the mixture holds together better. Mixing the dry ingredients evenly before adding wet ingredients can also create a more cohesive crumble.
Are Cherry Crumble Bars suitable for those with allergies?
Always a good question! These bars contain butter and flour, which can be problematic for those with dairy or gluten allergies. For a dairy-free option, try coconut oil in place of butter. If you need it gluten-free, almond flour is a fantastic substitute for regular flour. Just be aware of any additional allergen concerns with additional toppings or ice cream.
Cherry Crumble Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- Toss the fresh pitted cherries in a mixing bowl with ¼ cup of sugar. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes.
- Combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, remaining sugar, baking powder, and melted butter in a separate bowl. Mix until crumbly.
- Press half of the crumble mixture evenly into the bottom of your baking pan.
- Pour the cherry filling over the crumb base, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining crumble mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown. Let it cool in the pan.
- Slice the cooled bars into squares for serving.