Name: Sweet Cherry Crumble Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups cherry pie filling or pitted sweet cherries; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

I love these Sweet Cherry Crumble Bars because they’re buttery, fruity, and perfectly balanced between soft and crumbly. The sweet-tart cherry filling sits between a tender base and a golden crumble topping, creating a dessert that feels comforting and homemade in the best way. They remind me of classic bakery treats, but they’re easy enough for me to make anytime.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it uses simple ingredients and comes together without any complicated steps. I enjoy how the same mixture forms both the base and the crumble topping, which saves time and effort. These bars are perfect for sharing, packing, or enjoying with a cup of coffee. Sweet Cherry Crumble Bars

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Salt
Unsalted butter
Vanilla extract
Cherry pie filling or sweet cherries
Cornstarch
Lemon juice

Directions

I start by preheating the oven and lining a baking pan with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, I mix the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt. I cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. I stir in the vanilla extract.

I press about two-thirds of the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the base.

In another bowl, I mix the cherry filling or cherries with cornstarch and lemon juice. I spread the cherry mixture evenly over the base.

I sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the cherries. I bake until the top is golden and the filling is bubbly. Once baked, I let the bars cool completely before slicing so they set properly.

Servings And Timing

This recipe makes about 12 bars.
Preparation takes around 15 minutes, baking time is about 40 minutes, and cooling time is roughly 30 minutes, making the total time about 1 hour and 25 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes use sour cherries for a more tart flavor or mix cherries with berries for variety. When I want extra richness, I add sliced almonds to the crumble topping. I also like adding a pinch of cinnamon or almond extract to enhance the cherry flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I store Sweet Cherry Crumble Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When I want them warm, I reheat individual bars briefly in the oven so the crumble stays crisp.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cherries instead of pie filling?

I can use fresh cherries as long as they’re pitted and mixed with cornstarch and sugar.

Can I freeze cherry crumble bars?

I freeze them once cooled, wrapped tightly, and thaw them at room temperature.

Why are my bars too soft?

I usually find they need more cooling time to fully set.

Can I use a different fruit?

I like using blueberries, peaches, or apples as easy substitutes.

Do these bars travel well?

Yes, I find they hold together nicely once fully cooled.

Conclusion

I enjoy making Sweet Cherry Crumble Bars because they’re simple, comforting, and full of fruity flavor. They’re the kind of dessert that feels familiar and satisfying every time, and they’re a recipe I love having on hand for easy baking and sharing.