Tart Cherry Power Bars

(Made with Traverse Bay Farms Cherry Juice Concentrate)

Quick Summary

These Tart Cherry Power Bars are packed with oats, cherries, and a touch of Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate — a wholesome, energy-boosting snack that’s perfect for breakfast, post-workout, or a midday pick-me-up.

Published: November 2010 | Updated: November 2025

Chef’s Note 

This recipe we made in our Traverse Bay Farms kitchen as a test batch for a road trip snack — and they became an instant hit with our team. The cherry filling gives these bars a delicious tart flavor, and the oats add satisfying crunch and energy. They’re simple, nourishing, and travel perfectly. Once you’ve tried them, you’ll want to keep a batch ready at all times.

Prep & Yield

• Prep Time: 25 minutes

• Bake Time: 35 minutes

• Yield: 32 bars

Ingredients

• ¾ cup margarine or butter, softened

• 2 cups firmly packed brown sugar

• ⅛ tsp Traverse Bay Farms Michigan Cherry Juice Concentrate

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 cups old-fashioned or quick-cooking oats (uncooked)

• 2 tsp baking soda

• 1 can (21 ounces) tart cherry filling and topping

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

• 1 tbsp cornstarch

• ½ tsp almond extract

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large bowl, cream margarine, brown sugar, and cherry juice concentrate with an electric mixer for 3–4 minutes or until well combined.

3. In a separate bowl, mix flour, oats, and baking soda.

4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture; beat on low speed until crumbly.

5. Press two-thirds of the oat mixture into an ungreased 13×9×2-inch baking pan to form a firm layer.

6. In a food processor, puree the tart cherry filling until smooth.

7. Pour into a saucepan, add sugar and cornstarch, and cook over low heat until thick and bubbly.

8. Stir in almond extract, then spread cherry mixture evenly over the oat base.

9. Sprinkle remaining oat mixture over the top.

10. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown.

11. Cool completely before cutting into bars.

Chef’s Tips & Variations

• Substitute half of the brown sugar with honey for a softer texture.

• Add chopped walnuts or almonds for crunch and protein.

• Use Traverse Bay Farms Dried Tart Cherries in the filling for extra texture.

Nutritional Highlights (per bar)

Calories: 145 | Total Fat: 4.7g | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 2g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 75mg

Behind the Recipe

These bars are inspired by the natural strength of Michigan-grown tart cherries, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. At Traverse Bay Farms, we use Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate to add depth and natural fruit flavor — creating a snack that’s both indulgent and good for you.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Can I freeze these bars?
Yes — wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned?
Yes, both types work fine in this recipe.

How do I make them gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats and flour alternatives.

Can I reduce the sugar?
You can cut the brown sugar by up to 25% without affecting texture.

Experience the Flavor

Fuel your day the natural way — with Traverse Bay Farms Michigan Cherry Juice Concentrate, the only sediment-free guarantee in the industry. Add it to smoothies, energy bars, and baked treats for authentic cherry flavor and nutrition.