Almond Cherry Streusel Bars

Almond Cherry Streusel Bars blend the rich flavors of almond and cherry into a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. These bars are easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for both casual family gatherings and special events. The combination of a buttery crust, sweet cherry filling, and crunchy almond topping creates a treat that is not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe comes together in about an hour, perfect for busy bakers.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can use fresh or frozen cherries, allowing you to enjoy these bars year-round.
• Flavorful Combination: The pairing of almond with sweet cherries elevates the flavor profile to new heights.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, these bars are great for potlucks or family gatherings.
• Customizable Topping: Feel free to add a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for an extra special treat.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Almond Cherry Streusel Bars, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×9 inch baking pan: This size is ideal for achieving the right thickness in your bars.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to mix different components without confusion.

Ingredients

For the Crust and Topping

• 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
• 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
• 1/2 cup almond paste (about 3oz)
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/3 cup sliced almonds

For the Cherry Filling

• 1/4 cup water
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (increase to 3 scant tablespoons if using frozen cherries)
• 4 cups pitted sweet cherries (fresh or frozen (1-pound bag of frozen works well here))
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• pinch salt

For Glaze

• 1/3 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 teaspoons milk
• 1/8 teaspoon almond extract

How to Make Almond Cherry Streusel Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×9 inch baking pan lightly with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Make the Crust Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine:
* All purpose flour,
* Granulated sugar,
* Baking powder,
* Salt.

Add in the cold unsalted butter cubes. Use a pastry cutter or fork to blend until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the almond paste and almond extract until well combined.

Step 3: Press Mixture into Pan

Take half of the crust mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Bake this layer for about 15 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare Cherry Filling

In a saucepan, combine:
* Water,
* Lemon juice,
* Cornstarch.

Stir until smooth. Add in pitted cherries, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat until bubbly, stirring frequently until thickened.

Step 5: Assemble Bars

Pour the cherry filling over the baked crust layer. Sprinkle the remaining crust mixture evenly on top along with sliced almonds.

Step 6: Bake Again

Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze

Let cool completely before preparing the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with milk and almond extract. Drizzle over cooled bars before slicing them into squares.

Enjoy your Almond Cherry Streusel Bars as a delightful treat that brings smiles to all!

How to Serve Almond Cherry Streusel Bars

Almond Cherry Streusel Bars are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer them warm or chilled, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Top the bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of temperatures and flavors.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the bars for an extra layer of indulgence.

Garnished with Fresh Cherries

• Add fresh cherries on top as a garnish to highlight the cherry flavor in the bars.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these bars alongside your favorite warm beverage for a cozy afternoon treat.

Served with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch to each bite.

How to Perfect Almond Cherry Streusel Bars

To make sure your Almond Cherry Streusel Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cherries will yield a juicier filling compared to frozen. If using frozen, ensure they are well-thawed.
• Chill the Dough: After preparing the crust, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps maintain its shape while baking.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your cherry filling before baking and adjust the sugar according to your preference. Some cherries may be sweeter than others.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the bars while they bake. They should be golden brown and firm to the touch when done.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them hold their shape better.

Best Side Dishes for Almond Cherry Streusel Bars

Almond Cherry Streusel Bars pair wonderfully with several side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some recommended sides:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic pairing that complements the tartness of cherries beautifully.
2. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the bars.
3. Cheese Plate
   A selection of cheeses like goat cheese or brie pairs well with sweet desserts, adding complexity.
4. Lemon Sorbet
   The tartness of lemon sorbet offers a refreshing contrast to the rich streusel bars.
5. Yogurt Parfait
   Layered yogurt with granola and berries can serve as a lighter accompaniment alongside the bars.
6. Chai Tea
   The spices in chai tea enhance the almond flavor while providing warmth and comfort.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home bakers encounter issues when making almond cherry streusel bars. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking ingredients, especially flour and leavening agents. Stale ingredients can lead to poor texture and flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make your bars tough. Stir until just combined to ensure a tender texture.
• Ignoring the cherry filling: Not properly preparing the cherry filling can result in a runny or dry mixture. Be sure to follow the instructions for cooking and thickening.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into warm bars can make them fall apart. Allow them to cool completely in the pan for better slicing.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, so measure your ingredients carefully. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements when possible.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store almond cherry streusel bars in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing instead.

Freezing Almond Cherry Streusel Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Almond Cherry Streusel Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on high for 20-30 seconds. Check and reheat if necessary, but avoid overheating as it may make them tough.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and heat for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cherries for almond cherry streusel bars?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just be sure to increase the cornstarch slightly to help thicken the filling.

How do I know when my almond cherry streusel bars are done baking?

The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

What can I use instead of almond paste?

You can substitute almond paste with marzipan or finely ground almonds mixed with sugar. Adjust sugar levels accordingly based on sweetness preference.

How do I store leftover almond cherry streusel bars?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

Almond cherry streusel bars are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious and versatile. You can easily customize this recipe by adding different fruits or nuts according to your taste preferences. Give it a try today, and enjoy these delightful treats any time of year!

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Almond Cherry Streusel Bars

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Almond Cherry Streusel Bars are a delightful fusion of sweet cherries and nutty almonds, perfect for any occasion. With a buttery crust and a crunchy almond topping, these bars are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to prepare. Ideal for family gatherings or special events, they come together in just about an hour. You can enjoy these delicious treats year-round by using either fresh or frozen cherries. Whether served warm with ice cream or simply on their own, Almond Cherry Streusel Bars are sure to bring smiles all around.

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Ingredients

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• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter (cubed)
• 1/2 cup almond paste (approx. 3oz)
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 4 cups pitted sweet cherries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for filling)
• For the glaze: powdered sugar, milk, and almond extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Mix in almond paste and extract.
3. Press half of the mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes.
4. Prepare cherry filling by combining water, lemon juice, cornstarch, cherries, sugar, butter, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat until thickened.
5. Pour cherry filling over the baked crust and sprinkle with remaining crust mixture and sliced almonds.
6. Bake for an additional 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
7. Cool completely before drizzling with glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with milk and almond extract.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (approx. 70g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 95mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg