Warm sugar and cherry jam greet you first, the sharp-sweet pop of fruit tempered by a buttery oat crumble that gives way to a tender, almond-forward shortbread — that’s the very first bite of Cherry Pie Crumble Bars. The top is baking-golden, perfumed with toasted almonds and butter; when you break a bar, the jam pulls slightly, leaving a sticky, fragrant trail that makes the kitchen feel like home. The texture is everything here: a crisp, sandy base, a gooey cherry center, and a slightly chewy oat streusel that makes each forkful satisfying.
This is the kind of dessert that shows up at family gatherings without fuss. It sits on the counter next to a bowl of soup or a simple salad and still seems like the star because it feels homemade and familiar. People reach for it between conversations, and it slices into honest squares that travel well to potlucks or a neighbor’s porch. The flavors are nostalgic — think summer cherries in a jar, the way your grandmother might have spooned preserves over a cobbler — and the bars are easy enough to make ahead, which means you can spend more time visiting and less time in the kitchen. If you’d like inspiration for other quick bars with a similar feel, try a similar berry crumble bar that brings the same comfort.
This version is simple and almost foolproof, made with pantry-friendly ingredients and straightforward steps. You mix the almond flour and butter, press half into the pan, spread jam, crumble the rest on top, and bake. No chilling, no fancy equipment. The predictability of the bake — golden, bubbling edges and a jam set but still soft — makes this a great recipe to hand off to a daughter or a friend who wants to learn baking basics. It’s forgiving, too: a little extra jam won’t ruin it, and slightly more oats just make it heartier. The joy in making these bars is in the rhythm of mixing, pressing, and sprinkling; it’s a small, comforting ritual that yields something you can slice, share, and smile about.
Why this recipe works
Texture is the secret language of these bars, and the chosen ingredients speak it fluently. Almond flour produces a tender, almost melt-in-your-mouth crust because its higher fat content and finer grind keep the base soft rather than like a typical wheat shortbread. That buttery softness pairs beautifully with the oats in the topping; rolled oats provide a pleasant chew and a little structure, so the topping doesn’t collapse into the jam as soon as you slice it. Chopped almonds add bright crunch and a nutty note that cuts through the sweetness, giving each bite a range of sensations from creamy to crisp.
Ease of cooking is built into every choice. Using cherry jam for the filling means you get consistent flavor and texture without macerating fresh fruit, which can release varying amounts of juice and affect baking time. Jam sets reliably in the oven, so you’ll end up with a thick, glossy layer rather than a runny center. Melted butter binds the almond flour and oats together quickly; there’s no creaming or chill time needed, so the process moves along in simple steps. The modest sugar keeps the sweetness balanced and lets the cherries sing, while a pinch of salt highlights the almond and butter flavors.
The bake itself is forgiving. At 350°F, the base firms and the topping browns without needing precise timing for every oven; you’re watching for a gentle golden top and a few bubbling edges rather than a narrow color band. This makes the recipe suitable for bakers who like to multitask while friends arrive or children finish homework. The combination of textures — buttery base, jammy middle, crunchy top — means even small variations in measurements still result in a pleasing bar. Together, the ingredients form a dependable, comforting dessert that rewards simple technique with satisfying layers.
How to prepare Cherry Pie Crumble Bars
Before you preheat the oven, gather your ingredients and measure them out. Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment for easy removal, or grease it well. The most satisfying part of the process is pressing the almond flour mixture into the pan: it gives you a firm, even base that promises a good crunch, and you can feel the texture change under your fingertips as it compacts. Spread the jam gently so you have an even layer without pushing it into the crust.
When you mix the topping, aim for a loose, slightly clumpy texture so the oats and chopped almonds can shine through. Sprinkle it over the jam in patches if you like a more rustic look; the gaps will brown beautifully and offer crisp edges. Keep an eye in the last five minutes of baking for golden edges and light browning on the streusel. Let the bars cool fully to allow the jam to set; warm squares will be messy but still delicious. If you want to try another flavor direction, consider a bright mascarpone lime bar for a zesty change during another baking session.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cherry jam
- 1/2 cup oats
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour and melted butter.
- Add sugar and salt.
- Mix until smooth.
- Press half of the mixture into an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- Spread cherry jam evenly over the crust.
- In another bowl, mix oats and chopped almonds.
- Add the remaining crust mixture to the oats and almonds.
- Sprinkle the oat topping over the cherry jam.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Watch for a golden brown top.
- Allow to cool before slicing into bars.
Serving ideas
These bars are lovely on their own, but pairing them thoughtfully makes them feel like a full dessert moment. Try serving them with a small bowl of whipped cream on the side — not overly sweet, just lightly whipped to add a cloud of richness beside each square. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is always a crowd-pleaser; the cold cream contrasts the warm bar if you serve the bars a little warm. For a lighter option, a simple plate of fresh seasonal fruit, like sliced peaches or a handful of berries, complements the cherry tartness without stealing focus.
For drink pairings, think cozy and familiar. A cup of hot black tea or a mild coffee makes this feel like afternoon tea at home. In warmer weather, an iced herbal tea with a hint of lemon refreshes the palate and brightens the jam’s flavor. If you’re bringing these to a gathering, arrange a small platter with bars, a bowl of whipped cream, and citrus wedges so guests can customize their bite. The phrase Cherry Pie Crumble Bars here is a gentle reminder of their pie-like comforts and how they move effortlessly from kitchen counter to coffee table.
Storing this recipe
To keep the bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm or humid, move them to the refrigerator, where they’ll keep for about four to five days. When you refrigerate, bring them to room temperature before serving so the jam softens and the almond base regains some tenderness. For longer storage, these bars freeze wonderfully. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then sit at room temperature before serving to allow the jam to soften.
Reheating is simple: warm a single bar in a 300°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes to revive the crumble and soften the jam. Microwaving on low power for short bursts will also work, but may soften the crust more than an oven does. If you plan to freeze, freeze in a single layer first so pieces don’t stick, then stack them with parchment between layers. Label the container with the date so you can enjoy them within the best window. These storage tips help preserve texture and flavor so each bar feels freshly made, even days later.
Helpful tips
Tip 1 — Pressing and texture: When you press the base into your pan, use the back of a measuring cup for even pressure. A firm, evenly pressed base bakes more uniformly and provides a reliable contrast to the jam. If the mixture seems too loose, a few extra seconds of stirring can help incorporate the melted butter, but don’t overwork it. Overmixing can make the base a touch denser. Aim for a sandy, compact feel before you press it into the pan. This step is the backbone of the bars, and a little care here pays off when you slice neat squares.
Tip 2 — Jam choices and spread: Use a jam you trust. A thinner, runnier jam will still work, but the baking time and final set may vary slightly. If you’re concerned about spreading too much juice, warm the jam briefly on the stove to loosen it for spreading, but don’t make it runny. Spread gently with a small offset spatula or the back of a spoon to create an even layer without pressing into the crust. If you prefer visible fruit bits, choose a jam labeled "with fruit pieces" or mix in a few fresh or thawed pitted cherries into the jam for texture.
Tip 3 — Topping distribution and browning: The oat topping is happiest when it’s loose and scattered rather than packed down. Aim for clumps and gaps so the edges can brown and get crisp. If the top is browning too quickly in your oven, tent loosely with foil during the last 5 to 8 minutes. Letting the bars cool fully in the pan helps the jam set and makes slicing cleaner. Use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts for tidy squares. These small adjustments prevent common problems like soggy bottoms, overly soft centers, or a burnt topping, and they keep the baking experience calm and rewarding.
Recipe variations
Make it nut-free: Swap the almond flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and replace the chopped almonds with sunflower seeds. This keeps the texture while accommodating nut allergies.
Add a citrus lift: Stir a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest into the base mixture before pressing. The bright zest cuts through the sweetness and adds a fresh note that pairs well with the cherry jam.
Make it layered: Spoon a thin layer of cream cheese sweetened with a touch of powdered sugar between the crust and jam for a tangy, creamy middle. Chill briefly before baking for a set layer that adds richness.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of jam?
A: Yes. Pit and chop the cherries, then toss them with a little sugar and cornstarch to thicken. Use them as the filling, but be prepared for a slightly longer bake and a softer center.
Q: Are these bars gluten-free?
A: As written, yes — almond flour and oats can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats. Always check labels if you’re cooking for someone with celiac disease.
Q: Can I make these dairy-free?
A: Substitute a dairy-free butter or solid coconut oil in place of the butter. Note that texture will change slightly, but they will still be delicious.
Q: How do I get clean slices?
A: Chill the pan to set the jam, then use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between cuts. Cooling helps the jam hold its shape for neater squares.
Conclusion
These Cherry Pie Crumble Bars are a small, comforting pleasure that bring warmth to any gathering and are forgiving enough for a busy weeknight bake. If you’d like a slightly different crumb profile to compare or try next time, check out this tested crumb bar recipe for another take on fruit-filled bars.
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Cherry Pie Crumble Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Nut-Free Option
Description
Delicious Cherry Pie Crumble Bars with a buttery oat crumble and tender almond shortbread, perfect for family gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup cherry jam
- 1/2 cup oats
- 1/4 cup chopped almonds
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour and melted butter.
- Add sugar and salt. Mix until smooth.
- Press half of the mixture into an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- Spread cherry jam evenly over the crust.
- In another bowl, mix oats and chopped almonds.
- Add the remaining crust mixture to the oats and almonds.
- Sprinkle the oat topping over the cherry jam.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, watching for a golden brown top.
- Allow to cool before slicing into bars.
Notes
These bars are easy to make ahead and perfect for sharing. Enjoy with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American