When cherries are in season, I am always looking at ways to use them in desserts. These bars are extremely crumbly and delicious and make a great accompaniment with ice cream. They are simple to make and can be adjusted to your own preferences. You can use any nut or omit them for a nut-free snack.
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup honey
1 1/2 cups flour
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups pitted and sliced fresh cherries
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and spray and line the bottom of a square 8” pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, stir together the cherries, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Set aside. In a larger bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, honey, and vanilla extract. Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and oats. Mix together until crumbly.
Press half the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Spread the cherry mixture over the top and sprinkle with the almonds and cranberries. Add the remaining mixture and press onto the cherry layer. Sprinkle sugar over the top crumble mixture.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden. Allow the bars to cool before cutting. Makes approximately 18 bars (depending on the size they are cut.)
Patataki 