Cherry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

There’s something truly special about digging into a warm, chewy bar that’s bursting with fruity sweetness and a comforting crunch. Cherry Oatmeal Crumble Bars are exactly that kind of treat. The combination of oats and juicy cherries creates a dish full of warmth, making it the perfect comfort food for all ages. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a gathering with family, these bars will leave everyone feeling cozy and satisfied.

The key components of this recipe are simple yet delightful. With 2 cups of rolled oats providing a hearty base, and 1 cup of all-purpose flour adding some structure, these ingredients combine beautifully. The sweetness here comes from 1 cup of brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, while melted 1/2 cup of butter enriches the mix. A hint of salt and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon rounds out the flavor, perfectly complemented by 2 cups of fresh or frozen cherries—a lovely burst of tartness. The addition of 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch also helps to enhance and thicken the cherry filling.

The method of making these bars is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×9 inch baking pan. In one bowl, mix the oats, flour, sugars, melted butter, salt, and cinnamon until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. After pressing half of this mixture into the pan, toss the pitted cherries with lemon juice and cornstarch. Layer the cherry mixture over the crust, crumble the remaining oat mixture on top, and bake it all for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown. After letting it cool, simply slice into bars.

These Cherry Oatmeal Crumble Bars are perfect for a variety of settings. They’re a wonderful snack for chilly nights, making for a delightful dessert after dinner. You can easily pack them for a potluck or enjoy them as a sweet treat during your afternoon tea. Job well done, and your heart will surely be warmed by the delightful flavor of this comforting recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

• Quick and Easy: The simplicity of the ingredients makes it a breeze to prepare.
• Comfort Food: Perfect for enjoying during cozy nights at home.
• Versatile: Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
• Nutritious: Packed with oats and cherries, offering a good dose of fiber and antioxidants.
• Family Favorite: A recipe that everyone at the table will love, from grandchildren to grandparents.

Cherry Tips

When it comes to choosing the perfect cherries for your crumble bars, freshness is key. If you have access to fresh cherries, select those that are firm and have a deep color. They should feel slightly soft but not mushy. If using frozen cherries, ensure they are pitted and thawed before adding them to your mixture. The frozen type can make preparation convenient, especially if cherries are out of season. Just remember to drain off excess moisture to ensure a perfect texture in your bars.

Options for Substitutions

• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for a heartier texture.
• Substitute maple syrup for brown sugar for a unique flavor.
• Replace butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Swap brown sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier touch.
• Use oat flour if you’re looking for a gluten-free variation.
• Try different fruits such as blueberries or raspberries for a delightful spin.

Watch Out for These Mistakes

One common mistake is overbaking the crumble bars. Keep a close eye on the time once you reach around 25 minutes. The tops should turn a lovely golden brown—any longer, and you risk drying them out.

Additionally, be careful not to skip the lemon juice and cornstarch step when preparing the cherries. These two ingredients not only brighten the flavor but also help to thicken the juices. Omitting these could lead to a soggy bar instead of a delightful crumble.

Some bakers may also forget to properly grease the baking pan. Ensuring that the pan is well-greased not only prevents sticking but also helps with even cooking. A good coat of butter will go a long way here.

Lastly, take your time when cooling the bars. It’s tempting to cut them right out of the oven, but letting them cool completely allows them to set up nicely, making for clean, beautiful bars when you slice.

What to Serve With Cherry Oatmeal Crumble Bars?

Pair these delightful bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly indulgent dessert. A cup of hot tea or coffee also complements these bars beautifully, making them a lovely afternoon treat. For a family gathering, consider serving a fresh fruit salad on the side to balance the sweetness and add a refreshing crunch.

Storage Instructions

Store: Place the cooled bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep well for up to 5 days.

Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.

Reheat: To enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or use the microwave for about 30 seconds until warmed through.

Recipe Info

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 16 bars

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
Calories: 1,800 – 2,000
Protein: 30 – 40 grams
Fat: 70 – 90 grams
Carbohydrates: 250 – 300 grams

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prep Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×9 inch baking pan. This will ensure that your crumble bars do not stick and cook evenly.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, salt, and cinnamon. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Form the Crust

Take half of the oat mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating a solid base for your bars.

Step 4: Prepare Cherry Filling

In another bowl, toss the pitted cherries with lemon juice and cornstarch. This will help absorb excess moisture and enhance the flavor of the cherries. Spread this mixture evenly over the crust.

Step 5: Add the Crumble Topping

Crumble the remaining oat mixture on top of the cherry layer. Make sure to distribute it evenly to cover the cherries completely.

Step 6: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, looking for a golden-brown top as a sign they are ready.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is crucial for achieving clean slices. After cooling, cut into bars and enjoy.

In conclusion, I encourage you to try your hand at making these Cherry Oatmeal Crumble Bars. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also evoke a sense of warmth and love that comes with homemade treats. Share your thoughts after you make them, and feel free to explore more recipes that bring joy to your kitchen!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these bars one day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for the best results.

How do I adjust the sweetness?

If you prefer a less sweet bar, reduce the amount of brown sugar by 1/4 cup. The tartness of the cherries will still shine through beautifully.

What is the best way to cut the bars for neat slices?

To cut neater slices, let the bars cool completely and use a sharp knife. Wiping the knife with a damp cloth between cuts can also help reduce sticking.

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