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Delicious cherry crumble bars topped with a flaky crumble crust

Cherry Crumble Bars

Cherry Crumble Bars are a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors, featuring a buttery oat crumble and juicy cherries.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crumble
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups rolled oats
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed Make sure the butter is cold for a crumbly texture.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cherry Filling
  • 4 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries If using frozen, thaw and drain them before use.
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch Helps prevent cherries from sinking.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Enhances cherry flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9 inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Add the cold, cubed butter and vanilla extract to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Press about two-thirds of this crumble mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.
Making the Filling
  1. In a separate medium bowl, toss the pitted cherries with the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice until well-coated.
  2. Spread the cherry mixture evenly over the pressed crust in the pan.
  3. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the top of the cherries without pressing it down, keeping it loose for better texture.
Baking
  1. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling.
  2. Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into bars.

Notes

These bars can be served warm or at room temperature. Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful treat. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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