Fresh Cherry Crumb Bars Recipe

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly. Original recipe (1X) yields 16 servings.

Filling

• 4 cups fresh cherries, pitted
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

Crust and Topping

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Directions

1. For the filling, place cherries and sugar in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring often, until cherries are softened and release their juices, about 10 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, stir lemon juice and cornstarch together until combined. Gradually pour cornstarch slurry into the cherries, stirring constantly. Stir in lemon zest. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens, 1 to 2 minutes more. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
3. Preheat the oven to 350F (180C). Line a 9x9-inch square pan with enough parchment paper to have overhang on all sides.
4. For the crust and topping, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, white sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl until well combined.
5. Pour in the melted butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix with a fork until the mixture is thoroughly moistened, combined, and crumbly.
6. Pour about 2 cups of the crumb mixture into the prepared pan. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan.
7. Pour the cooled cherry filling over the crust and spread it into an even layer.
8. Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the cherries.
9. Bake in the preheated oven until the edges of the bars begin to brown, about 30 to 40 minutes.
10. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, about 1 hour. Remove them using the parchment paper overhang and cut into 16 bars.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 232
• Total Fat: 9g (11% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (27% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 23mg (8% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 93mg (4% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 37g (13% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 23g
• Protein: 2g (4% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 3mg (3% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 28mg (2% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (5% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 111mg (2% Daily Value)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The History of Fresh Cherry Crumb Bars

Fresh cherry crumb bars have their roots in classic American baking traditions, particularly in the Midwest and Northeast, where cherry orchards have long been abundant. The concept of layering fruit with a crumbly topping evolved from European fruit cakes and streusels brought by immigrants in the 19th century. Over time, home bakers in the United States adapted these recipes to create simple, handheld bars that showcased the sweet-tart flavor of fresh cherries combined with buttery crumbs. This adaptation made them perfect for family gatherings, picnics, and holiday desserts, and they quickly became a staple in American home kitchens.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

While fresh cherry crumb bars are widely popular across the U.S., certain regional nuances exist. In Michigan, often called the "Cherry Capital of the World," the bars frequently incorporate tart Montmorency cherries, which provide a more pronounced tang compared to sweeter varieties. In contrast, West Coast recipes might include Bing cherries for a richer, juicier filling. Some regions add subtle spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or almond extract to enhance the flavor profile, while others emphasize the buttery crumb topping. Regardless of location, the balance between the juicy fruit filling and the crisp, golden crumb remains the defining feature.

Distinguishing Features Compared to Similar Desserts

Fresh cherry crumb bars differ from other fruit desserts like pies or cobblers primarily in structure and portability. Unlike pies, which have a defined crust and often a lattice top, these bars have a loose, crumbly topping both on and under the fruit layer. Compared to cobblers, which typically have a thicker batter or biscuit topping, crumb bars are denser, offering a satisfying crunch with each bite. This combination of a firm yet tender base, sweet-tart filling, and buttery crumbs makes them uniquely distinct from cakes or tarts.

Serving Occasions

These bars are versatile and often served in casual and formal settings alike. They are perfect for afternoon tea, potlucks, summer picnics, and family gatherings. Because they can be prepped in advance and stored in the fridge, they are especially convenient for entertaining. Many bakeries and cafes feature cherry crumb bars as part of seasonal menus, particularly in late spring and summer when fresh cherries are in peak season.

Interesting Facts

One fascinating fact about cherry crumb bars is that they are often used in competitions at county fairs in cherry-growing regions, where bakers are judged on crust texture, fruit filling, and overall presentation. Another little-known tidbit is that adding a small amount of almond extract to the crumb mixture can mimic the natural almond notes found in cherry pits, enhancing the flavor without any artificial additives. Lastly, despite being a seemingly modern dessert, their layered design is reminiscent of European fruit tarts, making cherry crumb bars a delightful fusion of old-world technique and American creativity.

FAQ about Fresh Cherry Crumb Bars Recipe