This cherry crisp recipe is a warm, indulgent dessert that balances sweet cherries with a buttery, crunchy topping. Quick and easy, it’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Table of Contents
The Easiest Cherry Crisp Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Crisp
This cherry crisp is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. With its sweet, juicy cherry filling and a crispy, buttery topping, it’s a family favorite that pleases everyone. Plus, it’s so simple to make! Whether you’re using frozen or fresh cherries, you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar as you bring this treat to life in just a few easy steps.
Key Ingredients for Cherry Crisp
To create this delectable dessert, gather these key ingredients:
- 5 cups frozen cherries, thawed (or fresh pitted cherries)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ⅔ cup gluten-free flour blend (or almond flour, oat flour)
- ½ cup coconut sugar or brown sugar, lightly packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
How to Make Cherry Crisp from Scratch
Preparing the Cherry Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing an 8- or 9-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the thawed cherries, maple syrup, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract. This mixture creates a luscious, juicy filling that bursts with flavor. Spread it evenly into your prepared dish.
Crafting the Perfect Crisp Topping
Next, in a separate bowl, stir together the rolled oats, gluten-free flour blend, coconut sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the ingredients are moist and slightly clumpy. This step ensures an irresistible crunch on top of your cherry filling.
Assembling and Baking Your Cherry Crisp
Now, sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the cherry filling. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling at the edges. Allow it to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. The aromas wafting through your kitchen will have everyone rushing to the table!
Tips for the Best Cherry Crisp
Choosing Your Cherries: Fresh vs. Frozen
Both fresh and frozen cherries work well in this recipe. Frozen cherries save time and ensure a consistent flavor. However, if you have fresh cherries in season, feel free to use them. Just remember to pit them first!
Sweetener and Flour Substitutions
If you’re looking for alternatives, coconut sugar offers a lovely caramel-like flavor. You can also substitute the gluten-free flour blend with almond flour or oat flour for a different texture. This flexibility makes the recipe accessible for various dietary preferences.
Achieving the Perfect Texture
For a rustic chew, opt for old-fashioned rolled oats. Quick oats tend to get too powdery and will not provide the same satisfying crunch. Also, a little cinnamon enhances the cherry flavor while complementing the crisp topping beautifully.
Serving and Storing Your Cherry Crisp
Delicious Serving Suggestions
Your cherry crisp is best served warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of yogurt, or a swirl of whipped cream. Each bite delivers a comforting contrast of warm fruit and cool, creamy toppings, making it an irresistible treat.
Storing Leftovers and Reheating
If you have leftovers, cover them and refrigerate for up to three days. To enjoy your cherry crisp again, simply warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through, which keeps the topping nice and crisp.
Freezing Cherry Crisp
For longer storage, you can freeze your cherry crisp. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap (unbaked is preferred) and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking for a delightful dessert whenever the craving strikes!
Related Recipes to try
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for cherry crisp?
For cherry crisp, you need frozen or fresh cherries, maple syrup, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla, oats, gluten-free flour blend, coconut sugar, cinnamon, salt, and butter. Optional almond extract can enhance the flavor.
How do I make cherry crisp step by step?
Start by preheating your oven and preparing the cherry filling. Mix cherries with sweeteners and pour into the baking dish. Then, make the crisp topping with oats, flour, and butter. Assemble and bake until golden and bubbly.
Can I make cherry crisp ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare cherry crisp ahead of time. Assemble it, then cover and refrigerate until baking. You can also freeze it unbaked for later enjoyment. Just thaw before baking.
How should I store leftover cherry crisp?
Store leftover cherry crisp covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it in a 350°F oven to retain the crisp topping.
Conclusion
This cherry crisp recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the sweet, tart flavor of cherries. Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or as a simple dessert, it’s sure to impress. Explore more delicious recipes like this one on Pinterest or try your hand at an Apple Crisp for a comforting classic. Enjoy your baking adventure!
The Most Delightful Cherry Crisp Recipe You’ll Ever Make
Equipment
- 8- or 9-inch baking dish
- large bowl
- separate bowl
Ingredients
Cherry Filling
- 5 cups frozen cherries thawed (or fresh pitted cherries)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1.5 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.25 teaspoon almond extract optional
Crisp Topping
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 0.66 cup gluten-free flour blend or almond flour, oat flour
- 0.5 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar, lightly packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
Serving
- vanilla ice cream optional
- yogurt optional
- whipped cream optional
Instructions
Prep and Filling
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease an 8- or 9-inch baking dish. Combine thawed cherries, maple syrup, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and optional almond extract in a large bowl. Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Topping and Baking
- In a separate bowl, mix rolled oats, flour blend, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is moist and clumps slightly. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the fruit filling in the baking dish.
- Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling around the edges. Let it cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. Top with ice cream, yogurt, or whipped cream if desired.
