Easy Cherry Crisp
Ingredients
Directions / Instructions
Why You'll Love This Easy Cherry Crisp
This Easy Cherry Crisp is the perfect balance of sweet, tart cherries and a buttery oat topping that's crisp, crumbly, and packed with cinnamon flavor. It's one of those classic desserts that's simple enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for holidays and family gatherings.
Whether you use fresh, frozen, or canned cherries, this foolproof recipe delivers a bubbling fruit filling with a golden crisp topping every time. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort dessert.
Ingredients
For the Cherry Filling
- 6 cups pitted sweet cherries (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Crisp Topping
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch square baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
2. Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and cinnamon. Stir until the cherries are evenly coated, then spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
3. Prepare the Crisp Topping
In another bowl, mix together the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until coarse crumbs form.
4. Assemble
Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the cherry filling without pressing it down.
5. Bake
Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cherry filling is bubbling around the edges and the topping is golden brown.
6. Cool
Allow the crisp to cool for about 10 to 15 minutes before serving so the filling can thicken slightly.
7. Serve
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of heavy cream.
Expert Tips
If using frozen cherries, there's no need to thaw them before baking—simply add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch. Fresh cherries provide the best texture, while canned cherries offer convenience. For extra crunch, stir chopped pecans or sliced almonds into the topping.
Storage
Store leftover cherry crisp covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 325°F oven until heated through. Freeze baked cherry crisp for up to 3 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, crème fraîche, Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. Pair with hot coffee, tea, or iced coffee for an easy dessert any time of year.
Recipe Variations
Mix blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries with the cherries for a mixed berry crisp. Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping for extra crunch, swap cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice during fall, or replace half the oats with chopped almonds for added texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
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