Cherry Oatmeal Bars
Cherry Oatmeal Bars are a delightful treat that combine the goodness of oats with the sweet, tangy flavor of cherries. These bars make an excellent snack or dessert, perfect for any time of the day. They are easy to make and will surely satisfy your sweet tooth!
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Cherry Oatmeal Bars. First, they are made with wholesome ingredients, like oatmeal and whole wheat flour, making them a healthier option than many store-bought snacks. Secondly, the combination of buttery crust and fruity filling creates a delicious texture and flavor that everyone will enjoy. Lastly, creating these bars at home allows you to control the sweetness and use quality ingredients, ensuring a fresh and tasty treat.
How to Make Cherry Oatmeal Bars
Making Cherry Oatmeal Bars is simple and straightforward. Just follow these steps:
Ingredients
- 3/4 cups softened butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 cup unbleached white flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 cups oat flakes
- 1 cup cherry spread (Double Fruit type)
Directions
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla to the bowl and continue to mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, white flour, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture while mixing on low speed.
- Once combined, use a wooden spoon to stir in the remaining dry ingredients and the oat flakes. Set aside 1/2 cup of this mixture.
- Press the rest of the mixture firmly into a lightly buttered 13" x 9" (33 cm x 23 cm) pan.
- Spread the cherry spread evenly over the oat mixture.
- Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture on top of the cherry spread.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 35 minutes or until the top is lightly browned.
- After baking, place the pan on a wire rack and allow it to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into bars.
How to Serve Cherry Oatmeal Bars
Cherry Oatmeal Bars are best served as a snack or dessert. You can enjoy them warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
How to Store Cherry Oatmeal Bars
To store Cherry Oatmeal Bars, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to three months. If freezing, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Cherry Oatmeal Bars
- Make sure the butter is softened for easier mixing.
- Don’t overmix when adding the dry ingredients; mix just until combined.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cherry spread depending on your preference for sweetness.
- If you want a nutty flavor, you can add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds to the oat mixture.
Variation
You can easily switch up the flavor by substituting the cherry spread with other fruit spreads, like raspberry or strawberry, for different fruity variations.
FAQs
1. Can I use quick oats instead of oat flakes?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but the texture may change slightly. The bars will still taste delicious!
2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute both the whole wheat flour and unbleached white flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
3. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the top is lightly browned, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Enjoy making your Cherry Oatmeal Bars and sharing them with family and friends!
Cherry Oatmeal Bars
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla to the bowl and continue to mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, white flour, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture while mixing on low speed.
- Once combined, use a wooden spoon to stir in the remaining dry ingredients and the oat flakes. Set aside 1/2 cup of this mixture.
- Press the rest of the mixture firmly into a lightly buttered 13" x 9" (33 cm x 23 cm) pan.
- Spread the cherry spread evenly over the oat mixture.
- Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture on top of the cherry spread.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 35 minutes or until the top is lightly browned.
- After baking, place the pan on a wire rack and allow it to cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut into bars.
