Cherry Crumble Bars – Easy Oatmeal Dessert Recipe

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.

Prep Time 30 mins

Cook Time 30 mins

Rest Time 30 mins

Total Time 1 hr 30 mins

Cooking Method: Baking

Cuisine: British

Courses: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack

Difficulty: Beginner

Cooking Temp: 350 F

Servings: 8

Estimated Cost: 10

Calories: 240 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

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

2 cups rolled oats (Old-fashioned oats work best for texture.)
1 cup all-purpose flour (Can substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.)
1/2 cup brown sugar (Pack it in for more sweetness.)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (Melted for easier mixing.)
1 tsp vanilla extract (For depth of flavor.)
1/2 tsp baking soda (Helps the crumble rise slightly.)
1/4 tsp salt (Balances the sweetness.)

Cherry Filling

2 cups fresh or frozen cherries (Pitted and chopped; if using frozen, thaw and drain excess juice.)
1/4 cup granulated sugar (Adjust according to your sweetness preference.)
1 tsp lemon juice (Enhances the cherry flavor.)
1 tbsp cornstarch (Needed to thicken the cherry filling.)
1 tbsp water (To mix with cornstarch.)

Instructions

Prepare the Cherry Filling

1
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.
2
Thicken the MixtureAdd 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

3
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!
4
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

5
Press the Base LayerPreheat 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.
6
Add the Cherry FillingSpread 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!
7
Sprinkle the Crumble ToppingTake 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

8
Bake the BarsPlace 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!
9
Cool and SliceOnce 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.

Keywords: cherry, crumble, bars, oatmeal, dessert

Embracing the Cherry Crumble Experience

A Sweet Symphony of Flavors

The Cherry Crumble Bars are not just a dessert; they’re a delightful embrace of tart cherries and buttery oats, creating an irresistible harmony that dances on your palate. Each bite is a nostalgic reminder of summer picnics and cozy family gatherings.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

Serve these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch. If you have leftovers (which is rare!), they can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Encouragement to Create

I invite you to try this recipe and make it your own. Experiment with different fruits or add a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth. Please share your experiences and any questions you have; I’d love to hear how your cherry crumble journey unfolds!