Apple-Cherry Crumble Bars

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 375F.
2. 2
   Butter a 9 by 13-inch baking dish.
3. 3
   Simmer apples, cherries, and cider in a covered saucepan, stirring occasionally, until fruits are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. 4
   Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, 5 minutes more.
5. 5
   Drain, reserving 2 tablespoons liquid.
6. 6
   Let cool.
7. 7
   Coarsely chop fruit.
8. 8
   Combine with 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, and reserved cooking liquid in a bowl.
9. 9
   Whisk together oats, flour, baking soda, salt, remaining 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon, and remaining 3/4 cup brown sugar.
10. 10
    Cut in cold butter with a pastry blender or 2 knives until mixture resembles coarse meal with a few larger clumps remaining.
11. 11
    Press 4 cups of oat mixture evenly into bottom of prepared dish.
12. 12
    Spread fruit filling on top, leaving a 1/4-inch border on all sides.
13. 13
    Sprinkle remaining oat mixture evenly on top.
14. 14
    Bake until golden brown, about 35 minutes.
15. 15
    Let cool completely in dish on a wire rack.
16. 16
    Cut into 24 bars.
17. 17
    Bars can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container up to 3 days.