Quick Cherry Crumble Bars

If you ask me, Quick Cherry Crumble Bars are one of life’s simple pleasures. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon snack or a dessert for a gathering. Their sweet cherry filling paired with a crumbly topping offers a unique blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious bars in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh cherries and buttery crumble creates a mouthwatering treat.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy them warm with a scoop of ice cream or at room temperature with coffee.
• Perfect for Sharing: A great option for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite fruits if cherries aren’t in season.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Quick Cherry Crumble Bars, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure the process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spills.
• Baking dish: Using the right size ensures even cooking and proper portion sizes.
• Whisk: This tool helps incorporate air into mixtures, resulting in a lighter texture.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 3/4 cups plain white flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chilled butter
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons milk

For the Filling

• 2 1/4 cups cherries, pitted and fresh
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornflour

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 32 minutes
Total Time: 47 minutes

How to Make Quick Cherry Crumble Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the pitted cherries with 3 tablespoons of sugar and 2 tablespoons of cornflour. Mix well until the cherries are coated.

Step 3: Make the Crust Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the beaten egg and milk until combined.

Step 4: Assemble in Baking Dish

Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. Press half of the crust mixture into the bottom of the dish. Spread the cherry filling over this layer evenly. Crumble the remaining crust mixture on top.

Step 5: Bake Your Bars

Bake in the preheated oven for about 32 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool before slicing into bars.

Enjoy your delicious Quick Cherry Crumble Bars!

How to Serve Quick Cherry Crumble Bars

Cherry crumble bars are deliciously versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience with these delightful treats.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla or coconut ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm cherry crumble, adding creaminess that complements the tartness of the cherries.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A light drizzle of chocolate sauce not only adds sweetness but also creates a beautiful contrast against the bright red cherries.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream adds a lovely texture, making each bite even more enjoyable. Consider using a non-dairy alternative for a twist!

Served with Fresh Fruit

• Accompanying your bars with fresh berries or sliced peaches can enhance the fruity flavors and bring freshness to your dessert plate.

How to Perfect Quick Cherry Crumble Bars

To ensure your cherry crumble bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh cherries: Fresh cherries provide the best flavor and texture for this recipe, making your bars juicy and delicious.

• Chill the butter: Keeping the butter chilled before mixing helps create a crumbly texture in the crust that holds together nicely.

• Don’t overmix: Gently mix your ingredients when combining them to prevent tough bars. A little bit of lumpiness is fine!

• Adjust sweetness: Depending on your taste preference, feel free to adjust the sugar in both the crust and filling for a sweeter or tarter bar.

• Let them cool: Allowing your bars to cool completely will help them set better, making slicing easier without falling apart.

Best Side Dishes for Quick Cherry Crumble Bars

Pairing side dishes with cherry crumble bars can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Greek Yogurt: A scoop of tangy Greek yogurt balances the sweetness of the bars and adds protein for an extra boost.

2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can enhance the fruity flavors in the crumble and provide a light contrast in texture.

3. Coconut Milk Pudding: This creamy pudding makes a luscious side dish that complements the tartness of cherries beautifully.

4. Chia Seed Pudding: A nutritious option, chia seed pudding offers a unique texture and is easy to prepare ahead of time.

5. Almond Butter Dip: Serve this rich almond dip alongside your crumble bars for a nutty flavor that pairs well with cherries.

6. Oatmeal Cookies: For those who love cookies, adding oatmeal cookies as a side brings another layer of flavor while maintaining that comforting vibe.

7. Tea or Herbal Infusion: A warm cup of tea or herbal infusion can cleanse the palate and enhance the overall dessert experience.

8. Cheese Board: A small cheese board featuring mild cheeses can introduce savory elements that balance out the sweet cherry flavors in your bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Quick Cherry Crumble Bars, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to be aware of:

• Skipping the chilling step: Failing to chill the butter can lead to a dense crumble. Always use chilled butter for a light, flaky texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can toughen the bars. Mix just until combined to keep them tender and crumbly.
• Using unripe cherries: Unripe cherries can lack flavor and sweetness. Choose ripe, juicy cherries for the best taste in your bars.
• Not adjusting bake time: Ovens vary in temperature. Keep an eye on your bars while baking and adjust the time if necessary for even cooking.
• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into the bars too soon can result in a messy slice. Allow them to cool completely before serving for clean cuts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Quick Cherry Crumble Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Quick Cherry Crumble Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm; be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Quick Cherry Crumble Bars?

Quick Cherry Crumble Bars are delicious dessert bars made with a sweet cherry filling and a crumbly topping, perfect for any occasion.

Can I use frozen cherries for Quick Cherry Crumble Bars?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding them to your mixture.

How do I customize Quick Cherry Crumble Bars?

You can customize by adding nuts, oats, or different fruits like blueberries or raspberries for variety.

What is the best way to serve Quick Cherry Crumble Bars?

Serve them at room temperature or slightly warm with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream on top.

How do I know when my Quick Cherry Crumble Bars are done baking?

The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when they are done.

Final Thoughts

These Quick Cherry Crumble Bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. They’re perfect as a snack, dessert, or even a sweet breakfast treat. Feel free to customize with different fruits or toppings that you love!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Quick Cherry Crumble Bars

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 47 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Quick Cherry Crumble Bars are a delightful dessert that will become a favorite in your recipe collection. These bars feature a sweet cherry filling nestled between a buttery crumbly crust, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. They’re incredibly versatile—enjoy them warm with ice cream or at room temperature alongside your favorite beverage. With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious treats for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic, potluck, or simply a cozy afternoon snack. Plus, feel free to customize the filling with seasonal fruits for an added twist!

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Ingredients

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• 1 3/4 cups plain white flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup chilled butter
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 1/4 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 3 tablespoons sugar (for filling)
• 2 tablespoons cornflour

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the pitted cherries with sugar and cornflour; mix well.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in chilled butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in beaten egg and milk until combined.
4. Line a baking dish with parchment paper. Press half of the crust mixture into the bottom of the dish, spread cherry filling over it evenly, and crumble remaining crust mixture on top.
5. Bake for about 32 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool before slicing into bars.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 32 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (80g)
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 85mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg