There’s something irresistibly American about cherries in summertime — and what better way to celebrate than with these Cherry Crumb Bars, served on West Elm’s delightfully cheeky Patriot plates?
With a buttery shortbread base, juicy filling, and golden crumble top, they’re just the sort of unfussy dessert our colonial animal friends might have snuck a second helping of. Perfect for Fourth of July fêtes or casual backyard gatherings.
Cherry Crumb Bars
Short, snappy, and full of tart-sweet flavour
These cherry bars are what happens when pie and shortbread fall in love. Buttery base, juicy fruit, golden crumble top. Perfect for picnics, dessert trays, or “just because” baking days. No mixers. No fuss. Just a bowl, a pan, and a spoon.
Ingredients
For the Cherry Filling:
- 680g or 1.5 lbs pitted cherries (fresh or frozen)
- 100g or ½ c sugar
- 30g or 2 tbsp water
- 30g or 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 20g or 2 tbsp cornstarch or Clear Gel
- 5 ml or 1 tsp vanilla
For the Shortbread Crust & Topping:
- 240g or 2 c all-purpose flour
- 100g or ½ c granulated sugar
- 50g or ¼ c brown sugar
- ¾ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 170g or ¾ c melted butter
- 5 ml or 1 tsp vanilla
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9-inch square pan with parchment.
Make the filling
In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, water, lemon juice & zest, cornstarch, and vanilla. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is thick and glossy, about 5–10 minutes. Cool slightly.
Make the dough
In a bowl, stir together flour, both sugars, baking powder, and salt. Add melted butter and vanilla. Stir until crumbly and combined.
Assemble
Press 2/3 of the dough into the bottom of the pan. Spread the cherry filling on top. Crumble the remaining dough over the fruit.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden and bubbling. Cool completely before slicing. Chill for cleaner cuts.
Notes
- Frozen cherries work well—no need to thaw.
- Swap cherries for blueberries, blackberries, or plums.
- Serve as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.
Happy baking!
Adapted from Cherry Crumb Bars by Sweet Kitchen Cravings.
