Name: Cherry Almond Crumble Bars: A Delicious Treat to Savor!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries; 1 cup almond flour; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup sliced almonds

Introduction to Cherry Almond Crumble Bars

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something delicious. That’s why I absolutely adore these Cherry Almond Crumble Bars! They’re not just a treat; they’re a quick solution for those hectic days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. The sweet cherry filling paired with a crunchy almond topping creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked! Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Almond Crumble Bars

These Cherry Almond Crumble Bars are a dream come true for busy lives! They come together in just about 50 minutes, making them perfect for a last-minute dessert. The combination of sweet cherries and crunchy almonds is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve at family gatherings or enjoy as a cozy snack at home. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how quickly they disappear!

Ingredients for Cherry Almond Crumble Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Cherry Almond Crumble Bars. Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh or frozen cherries: The star of the show! They provide a sweet and tangy filling that’s simply irresistible.
Almond flour: This adds a nutty flavor and a lovely texture to the crumble. It’s a great gluten-free option too!
All-purpose flour: This helps bind everything together, giving the bars a sturdy base.
Brown sugar: It adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that complements the cherries beautifully.
Granulated sugar: This balances the flavors and enhances the sweetness of the cherry filling.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter brings richness and moisture to the crumble, making it perfectly crunchy.
Almond extract: A little goes a long way! It intensifies the almond flavor, making each bite heavenly.
Vanilla extract: This adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, making them pop!
Sliced almonds: These are sprinkled on top for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.

For those looking to make adjustments, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. If you can’t find fresh cherries, frozen ones work just as well! You’ll find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing.

How to Make Cherry Almond Crumble Bars

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Cherry Almond Crumble Bars! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert that will impress everyone.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even baking. If you skip this step, your bars might not cook properly, leading to a soggy bottom. Trust me, no one wants that!

Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling

In a mixing bowl, toss your fresh or frozen cherries with granulated sugar. This step is essential for enhancing the natural sweetness of the cherries. Let them sit for a few minutes. This allows the sugar to draw out the juices, creating a luscious filling that will burst with flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Make the Crumble Mixture

In another bowl, combine the almond flour, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, melted butter, almond extract, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until you achieve a crumbly texture. This mixture is the heart of your bars, providing that delightful crunch. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there; it’s the best way to ensure everything is well combined!

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

Now, it’s time to assemble! Press half of the crumble mixture into the bottom of a greased baking dish. Make sure it’s even and compact. Next, spread the cherry mixture evenly over the crust. Finally, sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture on top. This layering creates a beautiful contrast of textures that you’ll love!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You want the top to be golden brown and the cherry filling to be bubbling slightly. This is the moment when your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!

Step 6: Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely. This step is vital! If you cut them too soon, they might fall apart. Once cooled, slice them into bars. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week. But let’s be honest, they probably won’t last that long!

Tips for Success

Use fresh cherries when in season for the best flavor.
Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps the bars set properly.
For a fun twist, add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the crumble mixture.
Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens can vary.
Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat!

Equipment Needed

Baking dish: A 9×9 inch square dish works perfectly. You can also use a similar-sized rectangular dish.
Mixing bowls: Have a couple of medium-sized bowls for mixing ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
Spatula: Great for spreading the cherry filling and crumble mixture evenly.

Variations

Berry Medley: Swap out cherries for a mix of berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries for a colorful twist.
Nut-Free Option: Replace almond flour with oat flour and omit sliced almonds for a nut-free version.
Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble for a warm, spiced flavor.
Vegan Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter and a flax egg to bind the mixture.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled bars for an indulgent touch.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Cherry Almond Crumble Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted almonds on top.
Enjoy with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
For a festive touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar.

FAQs about Cherry Almond Crumble Bars

As you embark on your journey to make these delightful Cherry Almond Crumble Bars, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers to guide you.

Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cherries work wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before mixing with sugar to avoid excess moisture.

How do I store leftover Cherry Almond Crumble Bars?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors without the gluten.

What can I serve with Cherry Almond Crumble Bars?

These bars are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea!

Can I add other fruits to the filling?

Definitely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a fruity medley. Just keep the proportions similar to maintain the right texture.

Final Thoughts

Making Cherry Almond Crumble Bars is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in the kitchen. The joy of pulling a warm batch from the oven, the aroma wafting through the house, and the smiles on my family’s faces as they take that first bite—priceless! These bars are a delightful treat that brings everyone together, whether it’s a casual afternoon snack or a special dessert for gatherings. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing these bars as I do. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with love and laughter!