Looking for a simple and tasty dessert? Cherry Oatmeal Squares are perfect for you! This easy recipe packs a sweet cherry punch in a chewy, oatmeal crust. I’ll walk you through the ingredients and give you simple steps to follow. You’ll also find helpful tips and delicious variations. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, these squares will impress everyone. Let’s dive in and get baking!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
Here’s what you need for Cherry Oatmeal Squares:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Substitutions for Ingredients
You can swap some ingredients if needed. Instead of brown sugar, use white sugar. For gluten-free options, use almond or coconut flour. If you don’t have cherries, try blueberries or peaches. You can also use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free choice.
Measuring Tips for Accuracy
Measuring correctly is key to great squares. Use dry measuring cups for flour and oats. Level off the top with a straight edge. For sticky ingredients like brown sugar, pack it tightly into the cup. When measuring liquids, use a clear measuring cup and check at eye level. These tips help ensure your Cherry Oatmeal Squares turn out perfectly every time. For the full recipe, refer to the section above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking. Next, take an 8×8 inch baking pan and grease it well. You can use butter or cooking spray. This step helps the squares release easily after baking.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the following dry ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Mix these ingredients until they blend well. This mix forms the base and topping for your squares. Then, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Pour the melted butter and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the bowl. Stir until you get a crumbly mixture. Reserve 1 cup of this oat mixture for the topping.
Creating the Cherry Filling
Now, it’s time to make the cherry filling. In a separate bowl, toss together:
– 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Mix them well. The cornstarch helps thicken the cherry juices while baking. Spread this cherry mixture evenly over the pressed oat layer in your baking pan. Once done, sprinkle the reserved oat mixture over the cherries. Make sure to cover them well. This will create a delicious topping.
For the full recipe, refer to the main section.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Oatmeal Base
To make your oatmeal base shine, use fresh rolled oats. They give a nice texture. Mix your dry ingredients well before adding the melted butter. This will help every bite taste great. Also, press the mixture firmly into the pan. A solid base keeps the squares from falling apart.
How to Ensure Even Baking
To bake evenly, spread the cherry filling out flat. Make sure every corner has cherries. Use an oven thermometer to check your oven’s temperature. Sometimes, ovens can be off by a bit. Rotate the pan halfway through baking. This helps all sides cook the same.
Serving Suggestions for Cherry Oatmeal Squares
These squares taste amazing warm or at room temperature. For a fun twist, dust them with powdered sugar. A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy touch. You can also serve with whipped cream for extra delight. If you want a simple addition, pair with a cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy these Cherry Oatmeal Squares with friends or family! For the full recipe, check above.
Variations
Using Different Fruits
You can swap cherries for other fruits in this recipe. Berries like blueberries or raspberries work well. Peaches or diced apples add a nice touch, too. Each fruit brings a new flavor. Adjust the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness. For tart berries, use a bit more sugar. For sweeter fruits, use less. This keeps the balance just right.
Gluten-Free Adaptations
To make these squares gluten-free, choose gluten-free oats and flour. Many stores sell these options now. Check that your oats are labeled gluten-free. Mix them with almond flour or coconut flour for texture. You might need to adjust the liquid in the recipe. Gluten-free flours can absorb more moisture. Start with a little less flour and add as needed.
Vegan Alternatives
If you want a vegan version, replace butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. Use maple syrup or agave nectar in place of brown sugar. For the eggs, you can use flaxseed meal mixed with water. A mix of 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal and 2.5 tablespoons water will work. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Each of these swaps keeps the squares tasty and satisfying.
For the full recipe, you can refer back to the main section. Enjoy experimenting!
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing
To keep your Cherry Oatmeal Squares fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking. These squares can last up to four days at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigeration.
Freezing Cherry Oatmeal Squares
You can freeze Cherry Oatmeal Squares for later use. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped squares in a freezer bag or container. They will stay fresh for about three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
Reheating is simple! You can warm up your Cherry Oatmeal Squares in the oven or microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the squares on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. For the microwave, heat one square for about 20-30 seconds. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor! Don’t forget to check the Full Recipe for more details!
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. They work well in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them first. Drain any excess juice to avoid soggy squares. Frozen cherries may release more juice than fresh ones. This can make your filling a bit wetter, but it will still taste great!
How do I know when the squares are done baking?
The squares are done when the top is golden brown. You can also look for bubbling cherries around the edges. A toothpick test works too. Insert it into the center; if it comes out clean, they are ready. Let them cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before cutting.
What’s the best way to cut my Cherry Oatmeal Squares?
To cut the squares, use a sharp knife. Make sure the squares are cool, but still warm. Start in the center and slice towards the edges. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts. This will help create clean slices. Enjoy serving them warm or at room temperature!
This blog post covered how to make delicious Cherry Oatmeal Squares. We looked at the key ingredients, smart substitutions, and measuring tips for better results. Step-by-step instructions helped you prepare the oven, combine ingredients, and create the cherry filling.
I shared tips for perfecting the oats and ensuring even baking. You also learned some fun variations, like using different fruits or gluten-free options. Finally, we discussed the best ways to store and reheat your squares.
Now, you can enjoy tasty Cherry Oatmeal Squares anytime!
