Get ready to delight your taste buds with my Cherry Almond Crumble Bars! This sweet and simple recipe combines juicy cherries with a crunchy almond topping, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you have fresh or frozen cherries, I’ll guide you through each step, from mixing to baking. Let’s dive into this easy recipe and make something delicious together—your friends and family will love it!
Ingredients
Fresh or Frozen Cherries
You can use either fresh or frozen cherries for this recipe. I find fresh cherries add a nice bite. If you choose frozen, thaw them first. Remove the pits and cut them in half. You’ll need about 2 cups of cherries.
Sweeteners and Flavorings
For sweetness, you can use honey or maple syrup. Just one tablespoon is enough to enhance the cherries’ natural taste. Add one tablespoon of lemon juice for some zing. Don’t forget to include one teaspoon of almond extract. This gives your bars a lovely almond flavor.
Dry Ingredients
The dry mix is simple and essential. Start with 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 cup of rolled oats. These provide the base for your bars. Next, add ½ cup of brown sugar for sweetness. Include ½ teaspoon of baking powder to help them rise. Finally, add ½ teaspoon of salt to balance all the flavors. Melt ½ cup of unsalted butter and mix it in. Top it off with ½ cup of sliced almonds for crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Dish
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect heat for baking. Next, grab an 8×8 inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper. Leave some paper hanging over the edges. This will help you lift the bars out later.
Making the Cherry Mixture
In a small bowl, take your cherries. You can use fresh or frozen. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Then, mix in 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. Toss the cherries well. Set this bowl aside. The juices will mix and add flavor.
Preparing the Crumble Base and Topping
In a large bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients well. Then, pour in the melted butter and almond extract. Stir until you get a crumbly mix.
Now, take half of this mixture. Press it into the bottom of your baking dish. This creates a nice base. Next, spread the cherry mixture evenly over this crust. Make sure to distribute the cherries well.
Finally, take the rest of the crumble mixture. Sprinkle it over the cherries. Add the sliced almonds on top. Bake your bars in the oven for about 30-35 minutes. Look for a golden brown top and bubbly cherries.
Once baked, take the dish out of the oven. Let it cool for 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift it out. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. If you want, dust it with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your delicious Cherry Almond Crumble Bars!
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Right Cherries
When picking cherries, aim for fresh, ripe ones. Look for bright color and firmness. If you use frozen cherries, thaw and drain them first. This keeps the bars from getting too soggy. Sweet cherries work best for these bars. Sour cherries can add a nice tang if you enjoy a bit of tartness.
Perfecting the Crumble Texture
For a great crumble, mix the dry ingredients well. Combine flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. When you add melted butter, stir until crumbs form. Don’t overmix; you want some texture. The perfect crumble is buttery and holds together. Press half into the pan firmly for a strong base.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are great warm or cold. You can dust them with powdered sugar for a special touch. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert treat. They also pair well with coffee or tea. Pack them for lunch or a picnic. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family!
Variations
Using Different Fruits
You can swap cherries for other fruits. Try blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. Each fruit brings a unique taste. Blueberries add a sweet burst. Raspberries offer a tart kick. Peaches give a juicy, summer vibe. Just keep the same amount. Adjust sweetness based on the fruit.
Gluten-Free Options
Need a gluten-free version? Use almond flour or oat flour instead of regular flour. Both options work well in this recipe. Rolled oats are naturally gluten-free, but check the label. This change keeps the bars soft and tasty. You won’t miss the gluten!
Adding Spices
Want to spice things up? Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble mix. Just a pinch can enhance the flavor. Consider adding vanilla extract for more depth. Each spice brings warmth and comfort to your bars. Mix and match to find your favorite combo!
Storage Info
How to Store Cherry Almond Crumble Bars
To keep your cherry almond crumble bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. They can stay at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy your bars again, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes. This helps restore their lovely, warm texture. You can also use a microwave. Heat for 15-20 seconds, but watch closely to avoid overheating.
Freezing for Later
To freeze, cut the bars into squares first. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat them, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Enjoy a taste of summer anytime!
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. They are great when fresh ones are not in season. Just thaw and drain them before mixing. This helps keep the bars from being too watery. The flavor stays rich and sweet, just like fresh cherries.
How do I know when the crumble bars are done baking?
Look for a golden-brown top. The edges should be firm and the center slightly jiggly. The cherries will bubble up, showing they are cooked. Bake for about 30-35 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Let them cool before slicing to get neat bars.
What can I substitute for almonds?
You can use walnuts or pecans instead. If you want a nut-free option, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. These options add crunch without the nut flavor. You can also skip the nuts altogether if you prefer a simpler taste.
We explored how to make amazing cherry almond crumble bars. We discussed ingredients, like fresh or frozen cherries and the best sweeteners. I provided clear steps for prepping, mixing, and baking. You now have tips for picking cherries and perfecting the crumble’s texture. We even explored fun variations and smart storage methods.
These bars are tasty and easy to customize. Enjoy them warm or cold. Keep experimenting until you find your favorite twist!
