Description
A golden base of tender crumbs holds a simmered cherry filling that bubbles with tart sweetness. Topped with extra crisp crumbs, these bars deliver a satisfying crunch and juicy pop in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter cold, cubed
- 4 cups pitted fresh cherries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, 1/2 cup sugar, salt, and baking powder.
- Cut cold butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or fork until pea-sized crumbs form.
- Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture, then press the remaining crumbs firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- In a medium saucepan, combine cherries, 1/2 cup sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice and cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and bubbles, about 5 minutes.
- Spread the cherry filling evenly over the crust layer.
- Sprinkle the reserved crumbs over the cherry layer, covering it as evenly as possible.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and cutting into squares.
Notes
- For easier cutting, chill the bars in the refrigerator for 1 hour before slicing.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Frozen cherries can be used; thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking.
- You can add a pinch of cinnamon to the crumb mixture for extra warmth.