Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the egg and vanilla extract. Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture and stir until a dough forms.
4. Press the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. In another mixing bowl, combine the chopped cherries, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Stir until the cherries are coated.
6. Pour the cherry mixture over the dough and spread it evenly.
7. In a small mixing bowl, combine the oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is crumbly.
8. Sprinkle the oat mixture over the cherry layer.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly.
10. Allow the cherry crumble bars to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
12 bars
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 267
Total fat: 11.9g
Saturated fat: 7.2g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 68mg
Total carbohydrates: 37.9g
Dietary fiber: 1.7g
Total sugars: 18.4g
Protein: 3.2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any other fruit of your choice instead of cherries.
- You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- You can use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
- You can use coconut oil instead of butter.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts to the oat mixture for extra crunch.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the bars for a decadent touch.
- Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the cherry filling for a different flavor profile.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is cold when you cut it into the flour mixture to ensure a flaky crust.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the bars cleanly.
- Serve the cherry crumble bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Storage Instructions:
Store the cherry crumble bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat the cherry crumble bars, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the cherry crumble bars on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprig of fresh mint.
Garnishes:
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh mint leaves
- Whipped cream
Pairings:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Hot coffee or tea
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad
- Green salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too crumbly, add a tablespoon of cold water at a time until it comes together.
- If the cherry filling is too runny, add more cornstarch to thicken it.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all equipment thoroughly before starting to cook.
- Use a food thermometer to ensure the cherry crumble bars reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat.
Food History:
Crumble bars originated in the United States in the early 20th century and have since become a popular dessert around the world.
Flavor Profiles:
The cherry crumble bars have a sweet and tart flavor with a buttery crust and crunchy oat topping.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the cherry crumble bars as a dessert or a sweet snack.
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