Fresh Cherry Crisp

Cherry Crisp is a deliciously simple dessert highlighting the sweet, juicy flavor of fresh cherries beneath a buttery, golden crumble topping. It’s the perfect summertime dessert, showcasing seasonal cherries at their best. This easy recipe is a favorite for gatherings, holidays, or cozy family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: No complicated techniques or special equipment required.

• Seasonal delight: Makes excellent use of ripe, fresh cherries.

• Crowd pleaser: Popular dessert for potlucks, BBQs, and family gatherings.

• Versatile: Simple to customize with various fruits or toppings.

• Comfort food: The warm, bubbling cherries and crisp topping provide classic comfort with every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh cherries, pitted

• Granulated sugar

• Cornstarch

• Lemon juice

• Vanilla extract

• All-purpose flour

• Old-fashioned oats

• Brown sugar

• Cinnamon

• Salt

• Butter, cold, diced

Directions

1. Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or similar-sized baking pan.

2. Prepare cherries: In a mixing bowl, gently combine cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Transfer the cherry mixture to the prepared baking dish.

3. Make topping: In another bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add diced cold butter, using a fork or pastry cutter to mix until the topping resembles coarse crumbs.

4. Assemble and bake: Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the cherries. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling.

5. Cool slightly and serve: Allow the crisp to cool for about 15 minutes. Serve warm, optionally accompanied by ice cream or whipped cream.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Approximately 6 servings

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 40–45 minutes

• Total time: About 1 hour

Variations

• Mixed berries: Substitute half of the cherries with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.

• Nutty topping: Add chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans to the crisp topping for extra crunch.

• Spiced twist: Increase the cinnamon or add nutmeg or ground ginger for enhanced warmth and flavor.

• Gluten-free: Substitute the flour with gluten-free flour blend and oats certified gluten-free for a gluten-free version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cherry crisp covered or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual servings for about 30 seconds until warm.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh cherries?

Yes, frozen cherries can be used; thaw completely and drain any excess liquid before using.

Is Cherry Crisp best served warm or cold?

Cherry Crisp is best served warm, often topped with vanilla ice cream, though it also tastes delicious cold.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the cherry filling and crumble separately ahead of time, then assemble and bake when ready.

What type of cherries should I use?

Sweet cherries, such as Bing or Rainier, are preferred. Tart cherries can also be used but may require additional sugar.

How do I prevent a watery crisp?

Make sure to thoroughly mix the cherries with cornstarch; it helps to thicken the juices as the cherries cook.

Can I omit oats in the topping?

Yes, although oats add texture, they can be omitted. Simply increase the flour slightly to compensate.

Is Cherry Crisp gluten-free?

Not typically, but it can be easily adapted using gluten-free oats and flour.

Can Cherry Crisp be frozen after baking?

Yes, it freezes well. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I pit cherries easily?

A cherry pitter is the easiest method, though a straw or chopstick can also effectively remove pits.

Can I reduce sugar in the recipe?

You can slightly reduce sugar, particularly if cherries are sweet, but keep in mind sugar helps thicken and flavor the filling.

Conclusion

Fresh Cherry Crisp combines simplicity with classic flavors, making it a timeless dessert choice. It’s a perfect way to enjoy fresh cherries, easy enough for everyday baking, yet special enough for any occasion

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