Can I use canned cherry pie filling instead of fresh cherries?

Yes, you can use canned cherry pie filling as a shortcut. However, it will yield a much sweeter result than using fresh or frozen cherries. If using canned filling, skip the sugar and cornstarch steps, and reduce the total bake time by 3–5 minutes since the filling is already pre-cooked.

How do I know when my cherry crumble bars are done baking?

The bars are ready when the top is lightly golden and the edges are firm. The cherry filling should be bubbling slightly. Avoid underbaking, as the crust will be too soft and the filling won’t set properly. Cooling completely is essential for clean slices and the perfect chewy-crisp texture.

Can I make cherry crumble bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum for better structure. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy swap for those with dietary restrictions

Cherry Crumble Bars – Best Easy Recipe You’ll Love

Name: Cherry Crumble Bars
Prep time: PT-489866H40M3S
Cook time: PT-489866H40M3S
Total time: PT-489866H40M3S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup chilled unsalted butter (cut into 1/2-inch cubes); 2 tbsp milk; 1/4 tsp salt; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/4 cups fresh pitted cherries; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 3 tbsp granulated sugar (for cherry filling)

Description

Cherry Crumble Bars are a delightful dessert featuring a buttery, golden crust and crumble topping with a gooey sweet cherry filling. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or afternoon treats, they are easy to make, customizable, and store beautifully.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup chilled unsalted butter (cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
2 tbsp milk
1/4 tsp salt
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp baking powder
1 large egg (room temperature)
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 cups fresh pitted cherries
2 tbsp cornstarch
3 tbsp granulated sugar (for cherry filling)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a 1-inch overhang. Spray with nonstick spray.
In a large bowl, mix flour, 3/4 cup sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Grate cold butter into the bowl. Use your hands to mix until it resembles small pebbles.
Add the egg and milk to the flour mixture and stir until the dough is cohesive and holds together when pinched.
Press two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
In another bowl, mash the cherries until slightly chunky. Strain excess juice using a fine mesh sieve.
Stir in 3 tbsp sugar and 2 tbsp cornstarch until the cherries are coated.
Spread the cherry mixture evenly over the crust.
Sprinkle the remaining dough over the cherry layer to create a crumble topping.
Bake for 32–36 minutes or until the top is golden brown and edges are set.
Allow the bars to cool completely (2–3 hours) in the pan before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use cold butter for the best crumbly texture.
Let the bars cool fully before slicing to prevent them from falling apart.
Frozen cherries can be used if thawed and drained.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
Bars can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
Cook Time: 32-36 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar (approx. 1/12 of recipe)
Calories: 120–150
Sugar: 12–16g
Sodium: 50–80mg
Fat: 6–9g
Saturated Fat: 3.5–5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2–3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18–22g
Fiber: 1–2g
Protein: 1–2g
Cholesterol: 15–25mg