The Best Crumb-Topped Cherry Pie Bars Recipe You’ll Ever Make

Sweet memories dance through my childhood kitchen with these delectable crumb-topped cherry pie bars that capture pure nostalgia.

Grandma’s recipe whispers secrets of buttery layers and vibrant fruit fillings.

Cherries burst with tangy richness between soft, golden pastry sheets.

Delicate crumbs crown each square like a rustic, homemade treasure.

Baking these bars feels like wrapping yourself in a warm, comforting embrace.

Layers of flavor promise a dessert that speaks directly to your soul.

Crumb-Topped Cherry Pie Bars – Keep Fresh for Later

• Store leftover cherry pie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep bars separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months for maximum freshness.
• Remove frozen bars from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before serving. Alternatively, warm gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
• Warm refrigerated or thawed bars in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to restore the crisp crumb topping and bring out the rich cherry flavor.

Cherry Pie Bars Best Matches

• Pair Wine with Cherry Delight: Select a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais that complements the sweet-tart cherry flavor without overpowering the delicate dessert.
• Chill Vanilla Ice Cream Companion: Top warm cherry bars with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, creating a luxurious contrast between the warm, crumbly pastry and cold, smooth dairy.
• Match Herbal Tea Elegance: Brew a cup of chamomile or lavender tea to enhance the almond and cherry notes, providing a soothing and aromatic counterpoint to the rich dessert bars.
• Elevate with Whipped Cream Accent: Dollop lightly sweetened whipped cream on the side, adding a cloud-like texture that balances the dense, fruit-filled bars and provides a delightful creamy element.

Crumb Topped Cherry Pie Bars Recipe Ingredient Mix-Ups

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure oats are certified gluten-free to accommodate celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Vegan Cherry Bars: Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine, use plant-based milk for icing, and replace granulated sugar with organic cane sugar to create a dairy-free and egg-free dessert.
• Low-Sugar Alternative: Use sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, reduce overall sugar content, and opt for fresh or unsweetened frozen cherries to lower caloric intake.
• Nut-Free Option: Omit almond extract and replace with vanilla extract for those with nut allergies, maintaining the delicious cherry flavor while ensuring safety for nut-sensitive individuals.

FAQs

• What are the key ingredients in this recipe?

The key ingredients are flour, oats, brown sugar, frozen cherries, butter, lemon zest, cornstarch, and almond extract, creating a delicious combination of sweet and tangy flavors.

• Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?

Fresh cherries can work, but frozen cherries are recommended because they release less liquid and help maintain the bar’s texture during baking.

• Is the almond extract necessary?

While not mandatory, almond extract adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements the cherries beautifully. You can omit it if you prefer, but it enhances the overall taste profile.

• How do I know when the bars are fully baked?

Look for a golden brown topping and set edges. The bars should be firm to the touch and slightly pulling away from the pan’s sides when they’re perfectly baked.

Crumb-Topped Cherry Bars With Classic Texture

• Quick and Easy Dessert Delight: Transforms classic cherry pie into handheld bars perfect for any gathering.
• Minimal Prep, Maximum Flavor: Requires just one mixing bowl and simple ingredients, making it a breeze to prepare without complicated techniques.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Suitable for potlucks, family gatherings, or casual weekend treats that appeal to both kids and adults with its sweet-tart cherry filling and crumbly texture.
• Customize with Ease: Can swap cherries for other fruits like blueberries or peaches, allowing creative variations while maintaining the same delicious base recipe.

What You Need For Crumb Cherry Pie Bars

• All-Purpose Flour: Essential base for creating a crumbly, sturdy foundation for the bars.
• Whole Rolled Oats: Adds texture, nutty flavor, and wholesome character to the crust.
• Brown Sugar: Provides deep sweetness and helps create a rich, caramel-like crumb.
• Baking Powder: Ensures light and tender texture in the crust.
• Lemon Zest: Brings bright, citrusy notes to complement the cherry filling.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
• Unsalted Butter: Binds ingredients and creates a rich, tender crust.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, classic flavor to the crust.

• Cornstarch: Thickens the cherry filling and prevents excess liquid.
• Frozen Sour Cherries: Provides tart, intense fruit flavor and maintains structural integrity when baked.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cherry filling and helps create a syrupy consistency.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the filling and adds a subtle tang.
• Almond Extract: Provides a complementary nutty flavor to the cherries.

• Confectioners Sugar, Milk, Almond Extract: Creates a smooth, sweet drizzle with a delicate almond essence.

Crumb-Topped Cherry Pie Bars Baking Process

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Get your oven ready at 350°F.

Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper, letting edges hang over for easy removal later.

Step 2: Create Crumb Base

• Flour
• Oats
• Brown sugar
• Baking powder
• Lemon zest
• Salt

Stir in melted butter and vanilla extract until everything blends smoothly.

Step 3: Build First Layer

Press two-thirds of the crumb mixture firmly into the prepared pan.

Keep the remaining mixture for topping.

Step 4: Craft Cherry Filling

• Cornstarch
• Frozen cherries
• Granulated sugar
• Lemon juice
• Almond extract

Spread this vibrant cherry mixture evenly across the first layer.

Step 5: Add Crumbly Topping

Mix the remaining oats into the reserved crumb mixture.

Sprinkle this delightful topping over the cherry layer.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven.

Bake for 40-45 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown.

Let the bars cool completely.

Step 7: Finish with Glaze

Whisk together confectioners’ sugar, milk, and almond extract until silky smooth.

Drizzle this sweet glaze over the cooled bars for an extra touch of deliciousness.

Expert Tips for Crumb-Topped Cherry Pie Bars

• Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly to create a solid base that won't absorb too much cherry liquid.
• Use frozen cherries for intense, concentrated flavor and better texture in the filling.
• Adjust sugar quantities based on the natural tartness of your cherries to achieve perfect balance.
• Sprinkle reserved oat mixture loosely to create a crunchy, textured crumble that browns beautifully.
• These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, making them perfect for advance preparation.

Crumb-Topped Cherry Pie Bars Recipe

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• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Sweet cherry pie bars elevate classic dessert into portable, irresistible squares that blend homemade comfort with fresh summer flavors. Buttery crumble topping and rich cherry filling create a delightful treat you’ll savor with every delectable bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 3.5 cups frozen sour cherries
• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup old-fashioned whole rolled oats
• 10 tablespoons unsalted butter

Sweet Ingredients:

• 0.5 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
• 0.5 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup confectioners sugar

Spices and Extracts:

• 1.5 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 0.25 teaspoon almond extract
• 0.25 teaspoon almond extract
• 0.125 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons milk

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Instructions

1. Prepare the kitchen workspace by positioning the oven rack at the center and warming the oven to 350°F. Create a sling with parchment paper in a 9×13 inch baking pan to facilitate easy removal of the bars.
2. Craft the foundational crust by blending flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, lemon zest, and salt in a spacious mixing bowl. Incorporate melted butter and vanilla, stirring until the mixture achieves a cohesive texture.
3. Transfer approximately two-thirds of the crumbly mixture into the prepared pan, pressing firmly to establish an even base layer. Set aside the remaining mixture for the topping.
4. Develop the cherry filling by gently combining cornstarch, frozen cherries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and almond extract in a separate bowl. Distribute the cherry mixture uniformly across the prepared crust.
5. Enhance the reserved topping by folding in the additional oats. Delicately scatter the crumbly mixture over the cherry layer, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
6. Position the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, monitoring until the topping transforms into a golden-brown landscape and the filling bubbles gently.
7. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely, permitting the layers to set and flavors to meld.
8. Optional final touch: Whisk confectioners’ sugar, milk, and almond extract into a silky icing. Artfully drizzle across the cooled bars for an elegant finishing flourish.

Notes

• Swap frozen cherries with fresh or canned ones, adjusting sugar levels accordingly for optimal sweetness and texture.
• Create gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Enhance flavor by toasting oats before mixing into the crumb topping, which adds depth and nutty undertones to the dessert.
• Maximize fruit distribution by gently folding cherries instead of roughly stirring to prevent breaking delicate fruit pieces.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 202
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg