The delightful cherry crumble bars are a delicious treat that are not only easy to make but also perfect for cooking in an air fryer. These bars combine the tartness of cherries with a sweet crumbly topping, creating a perfect snack or dessert. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to create this simple yet scrumptious recipe using an air fryer.
Ingredients
- 250g fresh cherries, pitted
- 100g granulated sugar
- 200g plain flour
- 150g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 70g rolled oats
- 50g brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Baking pan suitable for the air fryer
- Cherry pitter
Instructions
- Prepare the Cherries: Start by washing and pitting the cherries. Place them in a bowl and mix with 50g of the granulated sugar. Set aside to macerate while you prepare the crumble base.
- Make the Crumble Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the remaining 50g of granulated sugar and vanilla extract.
- Create the Crumble Topping: In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, brown sugar, and a handful of the crumble mixture. Set aside for the topping.
- Assemble the Bars: Press two-thirds of the crumble mixture into the bottom of the baking pan to form an even layer. Spread the cherry mixture over the base, then sprinkle the crumble topping evenly across the cherries.
- Air Fry the Bars: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C. Place the baking pan inside and cook for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't over-brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cherry crumble bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Lift them out carefully, cut into squares, and enjoy either warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Success
- Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is cold to achieve the right crumb texture in the base.
- Cherry Options: If fresh cherries are not available, frozen cherries can also be used. Just ensure they are properly thawed and drained.
- Alternative Sweeteners: You can substitute the sugars with alternatives like coconut sugar for a different flavor.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Air fryers are an excellent tool for baking as they provide quick and even heating. They are perfect for small batches and offer a convenient solution without heating up the whole kitchen. Plus, using an air fryer can slightly reduce the required cooking time compared to traditional ovens.
Conclusion
These cherry crumble bars are a fantastic option for those looking for a quick and tasty treat. The combination of tart cherries and a buttery, crumbly base is irresistible. With the added convenience of an air fryer, you can enjoy this delicious dessert with minimal fuss. Whether you're serving it as a dessert or a snack, cherry crumble bars are sure to delight your friends and family. Enjoy your baking adventure!