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Sweet Cherry Crumble Bars

Sweet Cherry Crumble Bars are a delightful summer dessert that features a buttery shortbread base topped with a sweet-tart cherry filling and a crispy oat crumble.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cherry Filling
  • 4 cups fresh ripe sweet cherries, pitted A mix of Bing and Rainier cherries adds depth
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Adjust to taste based on cherry sweetness
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch Helps thicken the juices
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Brightens flavor
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract Optional, enhances cherry flavor
For the Shortbread Base
  • 1 cup unsalted cold butter Cut into small pieces
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar For sweetness in base
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Foundation for bars
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract Optional flavor enhancer
For the Oat Crumble Topping
  • 1 cup rolled oats Base for crumble
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar Adds sweetness and depth
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour For the crumble texture
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon Optional, adds warmth
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds For added crunch (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the fresh cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract. Toss gently and set aside.
  3. In another bowl, prepare the shortbread base by mixing cold butter, sugar, flour, and almond extract until crumbly. Press firmly into the bottom of a greased baking pan.
  4. Layer the cherry filling over the shortbread base.
Making the Topping
  1. In a separate bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and sliced almonds. Cut in cold butter using your fingertips or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Sprinkle the oat crumble topping evenly over the cherry filling.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling.
  2. Remove from oven and cool completely before cutting into bars.

Notes

Serve chilled or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.