Cherry crumble bars are a delightful fusion of sweet, tangy cherries nestled between layers of buttery oatmeal crumble, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and utterly irresistible. This easy-to-make treat brings together the nostalgic flavors of summer in every bite, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on your own.
Origin and History
The humble crumble has roots that stretch back to the United Kingdom, where it was created during World War II as a way to stretch limited supplies of ingredients. The original crumble was a simple affair, often made with whatever fruits were on hand, showcasing the ingenuity of home cooks during tough times. Over the years, it has evolved into various forms, with regional variations popping up, but the essence remains the same: a sweet fruit base topped with a crumbly mixture, perfect for indulging your sweet tooth.
Unique Ingredients and Flavors
What sets cherry crumble bars apart is the vibrant flavor of fresh or frozen cherries. Their tartness beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the crumble, creating a dynamic interplay of flavors that dances on your palate. The use of oats in the crumble adds a hearty texture, reminiscent of a cozy bowl of oatmeal but with a fruity twist. A sprinkle of cinnamon and a hint of vanilla elevate the profile, making each bite a warm hug in dessert form.
Cooking Techniques
Making these bars is a simple yet rewarding experience. The key lies in properly mixing your crumble to achieve that perfect texture—think of it as creating a sandy beach for your cherries to rest upon. Baking them just right ensures that the cherries bubble up, while the topping turns golden and crisp. It’s a technique that anyone can master, making this dessert a wonderful project for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Cherry Crumble Bars – Easy Oatmeal Dessert Recipe
Description
These Cherry Crumble Bars are a deliciously sweet way to enjoy cherries, enveloped in a buttery oatmeal crust and crumble. They’re perfect for sharing or savoring alone!
Ingredients
Oatmeal Crust and Topping
Cherry Filling
Instructions
Prepare the Cherry Filling
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Combine Cherries and Sugar
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 cups of fresh or frozen cherries with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Stir gently until the sugar starts to dissolve and the cherries release their juices, about 5 minutes. Then stir in 1 tsp lemon juice.
If using frozen cherries, you might need to cook them a bit longer to release their juices. -
Thicken the Mixture
Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water to the cherry mixture. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.This step is crucial for achieving that lovely, thick cherry filling. Don't skip it!
Make the Oatmeal Crust and Topping
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Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix until evenly combined.
You can substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option! -
Incorporate Butter
Melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and pour it into the dry mixture. Add and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Using a fork or your fingers, mix until crumbly and well combined.
The mixture should resemble wet sand. If it feels too dry, add a splash of water or coconut oil!
Assemble the Cherry Crumble Bars
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Press the Base Layer
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Press half of the oat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.Make sure to pack it down firmly to create a sturdy base for the bars. -
Add the Cherry Filling
Spread the cooled cherry filling evenly over the crust layer, making sure to cover it fully.Feel free to use other fruits like blueberries or peaches if cherries aren't your thing! -
Sprinkle the Crumble Topping
Take the remaining oat mixture and sprinkle it generously over the cherry filling. Don’t worry about it being perfect; some cherry peeking through adds character!For an extra crunch, you can add some chopped nuts to the crumble topping.
Bake and Cool
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Bake the Bars
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.Keep an eye on it; ovens can vary, and you want that lovely golden color! -
Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Lift out using the parchment overhang and slice into bars.Letting it cool fully will make slicing easier and help the bars hold their shape.
Note
- Use fresh or frozen cherries; if using frozen, let them thaw and drain excess moisture to avoid sogginess.
- For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract to the cherry filling.
- For a nutty twist, incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble mixture.
- If you prefer a healthier option, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oats.
- To optimize sweetness, taste the cherries before adding sugar; adjust accordingly based on their tartness.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure they hold their shape.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; they can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
