Crumb Topped Cherry Pie Bars Recipe
Imagine serving a dessert that's both simple and impressive, with the rich taste of cherries framed by a buttery crust and a satisfying crumb topping. You might wonder if such a treat is complicated to prepare, but the process is delightfully straightforward. Start by mixing the crust ingredients, then layer in a cherry filling that bursts with flavor thanks to a hint of lemon juice. The topping adds a perfect crunch, creating a harmonious blend of textures. As you bake these bars to a golden perfection, there's one secret step that elevates this dessert to a whole new level…
Recipe
Crumb Topped Cherry Pie Bars are a delicious and convenient twist on the classic cherry pie, offering all the flavors you love in an easy-to-serve format. These bars combine a buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and a crumbly topping to create a dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a summer picnic or a cozy winter gathering, these bars are certain to impress with their vibrant color and irresistible taste.
The recipe is versatile, allowing you to use either fresh or canned cherries, making it suitable for any time of the year. The process of making these cherry pie bars is straightforward and requires minimal effort. The crust and topping are made from the same crumb mixture, saving time and simplifying the preparation.
The cherry filling is enhanced with a touch of lemon juice and vanilla extract, which elevates the flavor and adds a hint of freshness. Once baked, the bars develop a golden brown top with a satisfying crunch that complements the soft and juicy cherry filling. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is accessible and rewarding to try.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups cherries, pitted and halved (fresh or canned)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
To prepare the Crumb Topped Cherry Pie Bars, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, flour, sugar, and salt until the mixture becomes crumbly. Firmly press about two-thirds of this mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
In a separate bowl, mix the cherries with cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, then spread this cherry mixture evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the cherries. Bake the bars for 40-45 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.
For additional tips, consider using fresh cherries when they're in season to enhance the flavor and texture of the bars. If using canned cherries, verify they're well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the filling.
These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. For an added treat, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the flavors.
Cooking Steps
To get started with your cherry pie bars, first crank up your oven to a cozy 350°F, because nobody likes a cold start!
Next, channel your inner baker as you thoroughly mix the crust ingredients—it's your chance to work on those forearms.
Once your crust is pressed into the pan, spread those cherries like you're Picasso, sprinkle the crumbs over them with flair, and bake until they're golden brown and irresistible.
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F
Preheating the oven is the first essential step in guaranteeing your cherry pie bars bake evenly and develop a perfect crust.
It's tempting to skip this part and jump straight into mixing ingredients, but trust us, it makes a huge difference. So, before you get too excited about those juicy cherries and crumbly topping, switch on your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the oven to reach the right temperature, guaranteeing your bars bake perfectly.
While the oven is preheating, you might notice a delightful warmth spreading through the kitchen—think of it as a cozy hug from your future dessert.
This step guarantees that as soon as you pop those bars in, they start cooking immediately. If you're like me and can't wait for dessert, this is an excellent time to double-check your ingredients and maybe sneak a taste of those cherries.
Step 2. Mix Crust Ingredients Thoroughly
Begin by gathering all your crust ingredients: melted butter, flour, sugar, and salt. Trust me, getting everything ready upfront makes the process smoother and keeps you from rummaging through the pantry mid-mix.
Once you've got everything, grab a large bowl, which doubles as your mixing station and arm workout. Pour in the flour and sugar first, then add the salt, spreading it evenly so no rogue salty bites sneak into your bars.
Now, slowly drizzle in the melted butter, channeling your inner drizzle master.
With a wooden spoon or your trusty spatula, begin mixing the ingredients together. Don't be shy—use a bit of elbow grease to guarantee the butter's well incorporated. You're aiming for a crumbly mixture that resembles damp sand, not a sticky dough.
If you're feeling fancy, toss the mixture with your hands for a tactile experience, just like those TV chefs. But remember, it's not a beach, so don't start building castles!
Once everything's mixed to perfection, you'll have a crumbly, buttery concoction that's ready to form the base of your delicious cherry pie bars.
Step 3. Spread Cherries Over Crust
How do you take your cherry pie bars to the next level? It's all about spreading that luscious cherry filling over the crust with precision and care.
Once you've pressed your buttery crust firmly into the pan, it's time to focus on those cherries. Grab your prepared cherry mixture, which should be a delightful blend of sweet cherries, a hint of lemon juice, cornstarch for thickening, and a splash of vanilla extract.
Now, imagine you're an artist, and the crust is your canvas. Gently spoon the cherry mixture over the crust, guaranteeing even coverage. This guarantees every bite bursts with cherry goodness, with no sad, cherry-less corners.
Don't rush this step; take your time to spread the cherries, making sure they're distributed evenly. If you're using fresh cherries, their vibrant color will pop beautifully against the crust, adding a visual treat.
Step 4. Sprinkle Crumbs Over Cherries
With the cherry filling spread perfectly over the crust, it's time to add the crumb topping. This is the fun part where you get to channel your inner artist. Grab the remaining crumb mixture that you've been patiently waiting to use, and start sprinkling it over the cherries.
Aim for an even layer, but don't stress too much—it's okay if some cherries peek through. Think of it as a rustic look, which is all the rage in the baking world!
Using your fingers, gently crumble any larger pieces, making sure every inch of cherry goodness is covered with that buttery, sugary mix. You want each bite to have a delightful crunch, so spread the crumbs like you're sprinkling fairy dust—light yet deliberate.
If you drop a bit on the counter, consider it a snack for later.
Step 5. Bake Until Golden Brown
As soon as you've finished spreading the crumb topping, slide the pan into your preheated oven. Set the timer for 40-45 minutes, but don't wander too far! You'll want to keep an eye on your bars as they bake. The magic happens when the top turns a lovely golden brown, signaling that your cherry pie bars are ready to dazzle taste buds.
While waiting, take a moment to enjoy the delightful aroma that will fill your kitchen, hinting at the deliciousness to come. If you're anything like me, this might be when you start planning who gets the first taste—it's a tough decision!
As the timer ticks down, resist the temptation to open the oven door too frequently; you don't want to lose that precious heat.
Once the bars are golden and bubbly, carefully remove the pan from the oven. Allow them to cool completely in the pan, which lets the filling set up nicely and makes slicing a breeze.
This cooling period is essential, as it prevents the bars from falling apart when you dig in. And voilà, you're all set to enjoy your scrumptious creation!
Final Thoughts
These cherry pie bars are undeniably a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making them a must-try for any dessert lover. You don't need to be a pro in the kitchen to whip up this delicious treat, and that's part of their charm.
The balance between the buttery crust, the sweet-tart cherry filling, and the crunchy crumb topping will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Plus, they're easy to transport, making them a fantastic option for picnics, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.
If you're feeling a bit adventurous, try swapping the vanilla extract with a hint of almond extract for a nutty twist. And hey, if you happen to make these bars when fresh cherries are scarce, canned cherries do the job just fine—as long as you remember to drain them well. A little bit of extra moisture never hurt anyone, but too much could turn your bars into a soggy mess.
Whether you serve them warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoy them chilled, these cherry pie bars are sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy every bite, and maybe share a few—if you're feeling generous!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Other Fruits for Cherries in This Recipe?
You can definitely substitute other fruits for cherries. Try using apples, blueberries, or peaches. Just adjust the sugar and cornstarch as needed for sweetness and consistency. It's a great way to customize the bars to your taste!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Verify the blend includes xanthan gum for structure. Double-check all other ingredients to confirm they're gluten-free. Enjoy your gluten-free treat!
What Is the Best Way to Pit Fresh Cherries?
You should use a cherry pitter for efficiency and ease. If you don't have one, press a straw or chopstick through the cherry to remove the pit. Always work over a bowl to catch any juice.
Can I Freeze the Bars for Longer Storage?
You can definitely freeze the bars for longer storage. Once they've cooled completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They'll stay fresh for up to three months.
How Do I Prevent the Crumb Topping From Becoming Too Soggy?
To prevent the crumb topping from becoming soggy, make certain the cherries are well-drained. Bake the bars until the topping is golden brown and allow them to cool completely before storing, which helps maintain texture and crunch.
