Cherry Crisp Recipe is one of those delightful desserts that brings back so many memories for me. I remember the first time I tried it at my grandmother’s house. The sweet, juicy cherries topped with a crunchy, buttery oat topping made my taste buds dance. Ever since then, I’ve been hooked on this comforting dessert. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners. Today, I want to share my favorite Cherry Crisp Recipe, along with tips and tricks to make it just right.
Ingredients for Cherry Crisp Recipe
Before we jump into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
Cherry Filling Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Crisp Topping Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Make Cherry Crisp
Now that we have everything set, let’s get cooking. The process is quite simple, and I love how quickly this dessert comes together.
Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and almond extract. Toss everything together gently until the cherries are well coated. If you’re using frozen cherries, there’s no need to thaw them; they’ll cook beautifully in the oven.
Step 2: Make the Crisp Topping
In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt. Use a fork or your fingers to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This topping is what makes the Cherry Crisp so delicious and crunchy.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the cherry filling into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the crisp topping evenly over the cherries.
Step 4: Bake the Cherry Crisp
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherries are bubbly. The aroma that fills your kitchen during baking is heavenly!
Step 5: Let it Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the Cherry Crisp cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set a bit. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate treat.
Tips for Cherry Crisp Recipe
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tips to make my Cherry Crisp even better. Here are some to keep in mind:
- Use Fresh Cherries: If you have access to fresh cherries, use them! They provide the best flavor. If not, frozen cherries work fine.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the tartness of your cherries, you might want to adjust the sugar. Taste the cherries before adding sugar to find the right balance.
- Add Nuts: For extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping.
- Experiment with Spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the topping for a different flavor profile.
Cherry Crisp Recipe Variations
While the classic Cherry Crisp is fantastic, there are many ways to switch it up. Here are a few variations I enjoy:
Mixed Berry Crisp
Combine cherries with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry version. The flavors blend beautifully together.
Peach Cherry Crisp
Add sliced peaches to the cherries for a lovely twist. The sweetness of the peaches complements the tart cherries perfectly.
Gluten-Free Crisp
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. This way, everyone can enjoy this dessert.
Serving Suggestions for Cherry Crisp
Cherry Crisp is versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas to make it even more special:
- À La Mode: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of warm Cherry Crisp is a classic combination. The creaminess balances the tartness of the cherries.
- With Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream also makes a wonderful topping. It adds a fluffy texture that contrasts nicely with the crisp.
- Over Yogurt: For a lighter option, serve it over Greek yogurt. The tartness of the yogurt pairs well with the sweetness of the crisp.
Storing Leftover Cherry Crisp
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, place the Cherry Crisp in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked Cherry Crisp before putting it in the oven. Just wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to the baking process.
Nutritional Information
While I love indulging in Cherry Crisp, it’s good to be aware of the nutritional content. Here’s a quick breakdown per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 3g
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Crisp Recipe
Cherry Crisp is not just a dessert; it’s a memory maker. The combination of sweet cherries and crunchy topping makes it a favorite among family and friends. It’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy winter evening, this dessert is always a hit.
I hope you enjoy making this Cherry Crisp Recipe as much as I do. It’s a delightful treat that never fails to impress. If you try it, let me know how it turns out!