Quick Cherry Crumble Bars (Printable Version)

Buttery bars filled with fresh cherries and topped with golden crumble - a perfect balance of sweet fruit and crisp texture.

# Ingredients:

→ Base & Topping

01 - 1 3/4 cups plain white flour
02 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
04 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/2 cup chilled butter
06 - 1 egg, beaten
07 - 2 tablespoons milk

→ Cherry Filling

08 - 2 1/4 cups fresh pitted cherries
09 - 3 tablespoons sugar
10 - 2 tablespoons cornflour

# Steps:

01 - Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Line a square 20×20 cm or 23×23 cm baking dish with parchment paper, leaving a 2.5 cm overhang on each side. Spray the sides with nonstick spray and set aside.
02 - In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Grate cold butter directly into the mixture. Use your hands to incorporate until the texture resembles small pebbles. Add the egg and milk, stirring until well combined and the dough holds together when pinched.
03 - Take 2/3 of the dough mixture and press firmly into the prepared baking dish, creating an even base layer.
04 - In a medium bowl, mash the cherries with a potato masher or fork until slightly chunky. Strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove excess liquid, then return to the bowl. Stir in sugar and cornflour until fully incorporated.
05 - Spread the cherry mixture evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the remaining dough over the cherries to create a crumb topping. Bake in the preheated oven for 32-36 minutes, until the edges and top turn slightly golden brown.
06 - Allow the cherry bars to cool completely at room temperature, or refrigerate to speed up the process. Once cooled, slice into bars and serve.

# Notes:

01 - These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or 5 days refrigerated.