Cherry Chewbilees

Cherry Chewbilees are a delightful confection that blends the juicy tartness of cherries with the comforting sweetness of brown sugar and oats. These chewy bars are a nostalgic treat, evoking memories of homemade baked goods and cozy kitchens. With their crumbly oat crust, gooey cherry filling, and golden crumb topping, Cherry Chewbilees offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re in search of a charming dessert for a picnic or a heartwarming treat for a quiet evening, Cherry Chewbilees are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of making these delectable bars while exploring the history of oat-based desserts and their enduring appeal.

INGREDIENTS

For the Oat Crust and Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed

For the Cherry Filling:

• 3 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted and halved if fresh)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking pan.
2. Create the Oat Crust and Topping: In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, all-purpose flour, packed light brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to incorporate it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Reserve 1 1/2 cups of this mixture for the topping.
3. Press the Crust: Press the remaining oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the greased baking pan to create a crust.
4. Make the Cherry Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the fresh or frozen cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract (if using). Mix until the cherries are evenly coated.
5. Add the Cherry Filling: Spread the cherry mixture evenly over the oat crust in the baking pan.
6. Sprinkle the Topping: Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture evenly over the cherry filling to create a crumbly topping.
7. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown, and the cherry filling is bubbling.
8. Cool and Set: Allow the Cherry Chewbilees to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set.
9. Slice and Serve: Once fully cooled and set, cut the bars into squares or rectangles. Serve and savor the delightful combination of cherries, oats, and brown sugar.

NOTE:

• Cherry Chewbilees are a charming dessert that pays tribute to the tradition of oat-based sweets while introducing the luscious flavor of cherries. Whether enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or on their own, these bars are a heartwarming reminder of the simple pleasures of homemade treats.