Cherry Pie Crumb Bars Recipe are one of my all-time favorite desserts. They combine the sweet and tart flavor of cherries with a buttery crumb crust that is simply irresistible. I remember the first time I tried them at a friend’s summer picnic. The sun was shining, and the laughter of friends filled the air. When I took my first bite, I was hooked. The combination of the crumbly topping and the juicy cherry filling made me feel like I was in dessert heaven.
Why Cherry Pie Crumb Bars Recipe?
Cherry pie crumb bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a barbecue, attending a potluck, or just want a sweet treat at home, these bars are a hit. They are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making them a convenient option for busy days.
Ingredients for Cherry Pie Crumb Bars Recipe
To whip up these delicious bars, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Crust and Crumb Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
For the Cherry Filling:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Cherry Pie Crumb Bars
Making cherry pie crumb bars is a straightforward process. Here’s how I do it:
1. Prepare the Cherry Filling
Start by preparing the cherry filling. In a medium bowl, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well and set aside. This allows the cherries to release their juices and create a delicious filling.
2. Make the Crust and Crumb Topping
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, melted butter, salt, and baking soda. Use your hands or a fork to combine the ingredients until they form a crumbly mixture. Reserve about one cup of this mixture for the topping.
3. Press the Mixture into the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Press the remaining crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust. This layer should be compact but not overly packed.
4. Add the Cherry Filling
Pour the cherry filling over the crust, spreading it evenly. Make sure to cover the crust completely with the cherries, as they will create a juicy layer that pairs beautifully with the crumb topping.
5. Top with Crumb Mixture
Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the cherry filling. This will create a delightful topping that adds texture and flavor to the bars.
6. Bake the Bars
Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. The aroma that fills your kitchen during baking is simply mouthwatering.
7. Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice them into squares or rectangles.
Serving Ideas for Cherry Pie Crumb Bars Recipe
Cherry pie crumb bars are delicious on their own, but I love serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The combination of warm bars with cold ice cream is heavenly. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They also freeze well, so feel free to make a double batch. Just wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
Variations on Cherry Pie Crumb Bars Recipe
While cherry is my favorite filling, you can easily switch it up. Here are some variations I enjoy:
- Mixed Berry Crumb Bars: Use a combination of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful twist.
- Peach Crumb Bars: Fresh peaches create a sweet and juicy filling that pairs perfectly with the crumb topping.
- Apple Cinnamon Crumb Bars: Use diced apples and add a sprinkle of cinnamon for a cozy fall treat.
Tips for Cherry Pie Crumb Bars Recipe
To ensure your cherry pie crumb bars turn out perfect every time, consider these tips:
- Use Fresh Cherries: If possible, opt for fresh cherries as they provide the best flavor. However, frozen cherries work well too.
- Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: This ingredient helps thicken the cherry filling, preventing it from becoming too runny.
- Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing helps them hold their shape.
Nutritional Information
Each cherry pie crumb bar contains approximately:
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 2g
Cherry pie crumb bars are a delightful dessert that brings back sweet memories for me. They are easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you are enjoying them at a picnic, a family gathering, or simply as a treat at home, they are sure to please everyone. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to make a batch of these delicious bars. You won’t regret it!