Cherry Oatmeal Bars
Chewy, fruity cherry oatmeal bars combine tart cherry filling with hearty oats and coconut for a satisfying treat perfect for snacking or dessert lovers. Ideal for gatherings or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and brown sugar for 10 minutes.
- Combine flour, oatmeal, and baking soda in a bowl.
- Add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture and mix until combined.
- Mix at low speed until the mixture is crumbly.
- Press two-thirds of the dough into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Spread the tart cherry pie filling mixed with coconut evenly over the dough.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the cherry filling and pat down gently.
- Bake at 325°F for 40 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened shredded coconut instead of sweetened. You can substitute half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version. If you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and oats. Keep the mixture crumbly for a better texture in the bars. Experiment with different fruit fillings for variety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cherry Oatmeal Bars as a delightful snack or dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. They pair beautifully with Golden Glow Punch(Serves 25 Four Ounce Servings) for a party. Consider cutting them into smaller squares for bite-sized treats during gatherings, or enjoy them with a cup of coffee for a delicious breakfast option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cherry Oatmeal Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, place bars in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Oatmeal Bars contains roughly 643 calories, with 5g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (43% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of cherry pie filling?
Yes, you can use fresh or frozen cherries, but you'll need to add sugar and cornstarch to thicken the filling. For each cup of cherries, add about 1/4 cup of sugar and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, cooking until bubbly before spreading over the base.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they turn golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make Cherry Oatmeal Bars vegan, substitute the shortening with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Use flax eggs or applesauce in place of any eggs if added. Ensure the cherry pie filling is also vegan-friendly by checking the ingredients.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).