Cherry Almond Crumble Bars Perfectly Baked Delight
If you crave a sweet treat that’s easy to make, I have just the recipe for you: Cherry Almond Crumble Bars! These bars are a perfect blend of juicy cherries and crunchy crumble. Plus, they’re versatile enough for any appetite. In this post, I’ll share my favorite tips, ingredient swaps, and foolproof baking steps. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful dessert! Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet and tart cherries pair perfectly with the nutty almond flavor, creating a delightful taste experience.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and ingredients, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, these crumble bars are a hit at any event.
- Visually Appealing: The vibrant color of the cherries and the golden crumble topping make these bars a feast for the eyes.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make Cherry Almond Crumble Bars, gather these ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing)
– 1 teaspoon pure almond extract
– 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need to change some ingredients, here are some easy swaps:
– Flour: Use whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.
– Oats: Quick oats work well if you don’t have rolled oats.
– Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar can replace brown sugar for a different flavor.
– Butter: Coconut oil is a great dairy-free option.
– Almond Extract: If you dislike almond, vanilla extract is a tasty substitute.
– Cherries: Use blueberries or raspberries if cherries aren’t available.
Tips for Choosing Fresh Cherries
When picking cherries, look for these signs:
– Color: Choose deep red or dark purple cherries. They taste the best!
– Firmness: Select cherries that feel firm and plump.
– Stems: Look for shiny cherries with green stems. This means they are fresh.
– Blemishes: Avoid cherries with spots or soft areas. Fresh ones are smooth and shiny.
Fresh cherries enhance the flavor of these bars, making them truly special. Enjoy selecting the best!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step helps the bars bake evenly. While the oven heats, grease a 9×9 inch baking pan with some melted butter. Make sure to cover the bottom and sides well. This will prevent sticking and help with easy removal later.
Mixing the Crumble Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Stir these together until they mix well. You want to ensure there are no lumps. Next, pour in 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon of pure almond extract. Mix these wet ingredients into the dry ones with a fork or your fingers. You should achieve a coarse, crumb-like texture that resembles wet sand.
Preparing the Cherry Filling
While your base bakes, it’s time to prepare the cherry filling. In a separate bowl, add 2 cups of fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved. Then, mix in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gently toss the cherries until they are fully coated. This will help absorb extra moisture from the cherries.
Assembling the Bars
Take the base out of the oven after 10-12 minutes. It should be lightly golden. Spread the cherry mixture evenly over the warm crust. This helps the flavors meld together. Remember the 1 cup of crumble mixture you set aside? Now, sprinkle it over the cherry layer, covering it completely. This adds a nice crunch.
Baking Instructions
Place the baking pan back in the oven. Bake for another 25-30 minutes. You want the topping to turn a golden brown and the cherries to be bubbly. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen and make your mouth water. After baking, let the bars cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into 9 generous bars and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Crumble Texture
To get the best crumble texture, focus on mixing. Use cold butter and work it into the dry mix. The mix should look like coarse crumbs. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are okay. This gives your bars that lovely crunch. When you bake, keep an eye on the color. If it’s golden brown, it’s done.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake is not preheating your oven. Always preheat for even cooking. Another is using too much liquid in the cherry mix. It can make the bars soggy. Make sure to coat the cherries well with cornstarch. This helps absorb extra juices. Lastly, don’t skip letting the bars cool before slicing. This helps them set and keeps them from falling apart.
Expert Serving Suggestions
For a lovely presentation, serve the bars on a wooden board. Add fresh cherries and a dusting of powdered sugar. This makes them look fancy without extra work. Pair the bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm cherry filling and cold ice cream create a yummy contrast. Enjoy with friends or family for a great treat!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Cherries: For the best flavor, opt for fresh cherries when they’re in season. If using frozen, make sure they’re completely thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
- Customize Your Oats: Try using different types of oats, such as quick oats or old-fashioned rolled oats, to achieve varied textures in your crumble topping.
- Add a Pinch of Cinnamon: Incorporating a pinch of cinnamon into the crumble mixture can enhance the overall flavor, giving your bars a warm, inviting aroma.
- Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing ensures cleaner cuts and prevents the filling from spilling out.
Variations
Alternative Fruits for Filling
You can swap cherries for many other fruits. Try using blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches. Each fruit brings its own flavor. Adjust the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness. For example, peaches may need more sugar, while blueberries are sweeter. Mix and match to find your favorite combo!
Gluten-Free Options
To make these bars gluten-free, use gluten-free flour. Look for blends that work well in baking. You can also use almond flour for a nutty flavor. Ensure the oats are labeled gluten-free as well. This way, everyone can enjoy the cherry almond crumble bars!
Additional Toppings or Add-Ins
Get creative with toppings! Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for crunch. You can also sprinkle in coconut flakes for a tropical twist. For a touch of spice, add cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble. These small changes can elevate your bars in exciting ways!
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Leftover Bars
To keep your cherry almond crumble bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can stay at room temperature for up to three days. If the weather is warm, refrigerate them for a longer shelf life.
Freezing Instructions
For longer storage, freezing is a great option. First, slice the bars into individual pieces. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. These bars can stay frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge.
How to Reheat
Reheating is simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes until warm. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Heat each bar for about 15 seconds. Enjoy them warm for a fresh taste!
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just thaw them first. Drain any extra juice before mixing them into your filling. This helps keep the bars from getting too soggy. Frozen cherries work well and still taste great.
How can I make these bars vegan?
To make these bars vegan, swap the butter for a plant-based option. Choose coconut oil or vegan butter. You can also replace the almond extract with a splash of vanilla. The bars will still be delicious and rich in flavor.
What is the best way to slice crumble bars?
The best way to slice crumble bars is to wait until they are cool. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. You can also score the bars lightly before they cool. This helps guide your knife later and makes cutting easier.
How long do these bars last?
These bars last about five days when stored properly. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them. They can stay fresh for about a week in the fridge.
Can I prepare the mixture in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance. Store the crumble and cherry filling in separate containers. Keep them in the fridge for up to two days. When you are ready, just assemble and bake them for a quick treat.
This blog post covers how to make delicious cherry crumble bars. You learned about key ingredients, fresh cherry tips, and step-by-step baking. We discussed achieving the perfect crumble texture and common mistakes to avoid. I shared variations for different fruits and gluten-free needs. Storing tips ensure your bars stay fresh.
Remember, cooking is fun! Enjoy trying new ingredients and make these bars your own. Happy bakin
Cherry Almond Crumble Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon pure almond extract
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan thoroughly, then set it aside to prepare for the crumble bars.
- In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are well-blended, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Gently pour in the melted butter and almond extract. Using a fork or your fingertips, mix the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until it forms a coarse, crumb-like texture, reminiscent of wet sand.
- Take 1 cup of this crumble mixture and set it aside for later. Next, press the remaining crumble mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, forming a solid base. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
- While the base is baking, prepare the cherry filling. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the halved cherries with cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss gently until all the cherries are well coated with the mixture, allowing the cornstarch to absorb excess moisture.
- Once the baked base is removed from the oven, evenly distribute the cherry mixture over the warm crust, ensuring an even layer.
- Return the reserved crumble mixture to the spotlight by sprinkling it generously over the cherries, covering them thoroughly for a delightful crunch.
- Place the baking pan back into the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes. The topping should turn a lovely golden brown, and the cherries will become bubbly, creating a wonderful aroma.
- After baking, allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely before slicing into 9 generous bars. Enjoy!
