Cherry Graham Crumble Bars: Sweet & Tart Dessert Bursting with Juicy Cherry Compote & Buttery Crumb

If you're looking for a dessert that combines the bright, tart flavor of cherries with a buttery, crumbly topping, these Cherry Graham Crumble Bars will hit the spot. Each bite is packed with juicy cherry compote nestled between layers of graham crumble, offering a perfect balance of sweet and tart. Whether you're serving them as a casual treat or at a special gathering, these bars are guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, so you can make them ahead of time and enjoy them whenever you want!

Scroll down for the full recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Cherry Graham Crumble Bars

There's something magical about combining fruit and crumble into one dessert. This recipe takes that idea and amps it up by using a cherry compote as the filling, offering a burst of fresh, tangy flavor that complements the rich graham cracker crumble perfectly. The compote is thickened just enough to hold its shape between the buttery layers, creating a bar that’s not only delicious but also easy to cut and serve. Whether you're a fan of fruity desserts or just looking for a new way to enjoy cherries, these crumble bars are a must-try.

Why You’ll Love Cherry Graham Crumble Bars

These bars are the perfect combination of sweet, buttery, and fruity flavors. The cherry compote adds a refreshing tartness that balances the richness of the graham cracker base and crumble topping. They’re easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them warm with a scoop of ice cream or serve them chilled for a more refreshing treat. Plus, these bars freeze beautifully, making them perfect for prepping in advance for parties, potlucks, or whenever a sweet craving strikes!

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 12 Bars):

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fiber: 2g

These bars are rich enough to stand alone as a dessert but can also be paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Cherry Graham Crumble Bars are perfect served at room temperature, but for an extra decadent dessert, try warming them up slightly and serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm, gooey cherry filling pairs beautifully with the cold, creamy ice cream, creating a dessert that’s sure to impress. If you want to keep it simple, these bars also pair nicely with a cup of coffee or tea, making them an ideal afternoon snack or light dessert after dinner.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, simply thaw the bars at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds for a warm, gooey treat.

Fun Fact: Graham Crackers Were Originally a Health Food!

Did you know that graham crackers were invented in the 19th century by Sylvester Graham as part of a diet designed to curb cravings and promote health? While today’s graham crackers are far sweeter than the original version, they still add a deliciously wholesome touch to desserts like these Cherry Graham Crumble Bars.

Cooking Tips

1. Use Fresh or Frozen Cherries: If cherries aren’t in season, you can easily substitute frozen cherries in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before making the compote.
2. Thickening the Compote: Be careful not to over-thicken the cherry compote. You want it to hold its shape but still be juicy enough to create a luscious filling.
3. Customize Your Crumble: For an extra crunchy topping, try adding chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the crumble mixture before baking.

Optional Variations

1. Berry Mix: Swap out the cherries for a mixture of berries like blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a colorful and equally delicious twist.
2. Add a Drizzle: After the bars have cooled, drizzle them with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for an extra touch of sweetness.
3. Spiced Crumble: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble mixture for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs perfectly with the cherries.

Cherry Graham Crumble Bars Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Cherry Compote Filling:

• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3 1/2 cups pitted, quartered cherries
• 3 rounded teaspoons cornstarch dissolved in a small amount of water

For the Graham Crumble:

• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 2/3 cups graham cracker crumbs (digestive biscuit crumbs work well too)
• 2 cups flour
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 ½ cups butter, cut into small cubes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the cherry compote: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and cherries. Simmer slowly for about 20 minutes, or until the juice from the cherries has reduced by half. Thicken the compote by stirring in the cornstarch slurry. Continue cooking for 1 minute, stirring constantly, then remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
2. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
3. Make the graham crumble: In a large bowl, combine the baking powder, graham cracker crumbs, flour, and brown sugar. Add the butter and rub it into the dry ingredients using your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Assemble the bars: Press half of the graham crumble mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread the cooled cherry compote evenly over the base layer.
5. Add the topping: Press the remaining graham crumble mixture into handfuls and scatter it over the cherry filling. Press down lightly to ensure the crumble sticks but still remains textured.
6. Bake: Bake the bars in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
7. Cool and serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares or bars. Serve and enjoy the delicious combination of sweet cherries and buttery crumble!

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Final Thoughts

These Cherry Graham Crumble Bars are the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the combination of fruit and buttery, crumbly toppings. The tartness of the cherries contrasts beautifully with the sweet, rich graham cracker base, creating a bar that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to enjoy at home, these bars are sure to impress!