Name: Fresh Cherry Crisp Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pounds sweet ripe cherries, pitted; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon pure almond extract (optional); 2/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; 2/3 cup old-fashioned rolled oats; 3/4 cup chopped pecans (optional); Zest of one lemon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cherry crisp is the ultimate combination of ease and flavor. The tartness of fresh cherries pairs beautifully with the sweet, crumbly topping, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. It’s a no-fuss recipe—just mix the ingredients together, bake, and enjoy the delicious results. Plus, it’s versatile, allowing you to serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy it on its own. It’s an ideal choice for summer gatherings, and best of all, it’s made with minimal effort!

Ingredients

Cherry Filling:

3 pounds sweet ripe cherries, pitted
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon pure almond extract (optional)

Crisp Topping:

2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
2/3 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (NOT quick oats)
3/4 cup chopped pecans (optional; increase oats to 1 cup if omitting nuts)
Zest of one lemon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prep the Oven and Dish

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease an 8×11-inch baking dish, 9-inch square or round baking dish, or a 9-inch deep pie plate. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Crisp Topping

In a large bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, oats, pecans (if using), lemon zest, vanilla extract, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly mixed. Add the melted butter and stir with a spatula until fully combined. Use your hands to help incorporate any remaining dry bits. Transfer the topping to the freezer while you prepare the cherry filling. You can freeze it for up to 30 minutes, then refrigerate as needed.

3. Prepare the Cherry Filling

In a large bowl, combine the pitted cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Stir until the cherries are well-coated and the ingredients are evenly combined. Transfer the cherry mixture to the prepared baking dish, including any juices.

4. Add the Topping

Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the cherry filling. Break up any large chunks with your hands, but keep some small chunks for added texture.

5. Bake the Crisp

Bake uncovered at 350°F for 35-45 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the juices are bubbling vigorously around the edges. The crisp topping should be crunchy and golden, and the cherries should be bubbling in the syrup.

6. Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the syrup to thicken slightly. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or just on its own.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10 servings
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

Different Fruits: You can use other fruits like peaches, blueberries, or mixed berries in place of cherries for a delicious twist.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free version.
Nuts and Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the topping for an extra layer of flavor, or use walnuts instead of pecans for a different nutty taste.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The topping will soften as it cools, but it will still taste great.
Reheating: To reheat, bake uncovered at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on your microwave.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble the crisp just before baking to avoid a soggy topping. However, you can prep everything (except the sugar in the filling) up to one day ahead. Store the filling and topping separately in the fridge, then assemble and bake when ready.

Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, frozen cherries can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess liquid.

Can I use a different topping?

If you prefer a more traditional crumble topping, you can replace the oats with more flour and sugar. You can also use a store-bought crumble mix for an even quicker option.

Can I freeze Cherry Crisp?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled, uncooked crisp. Just cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I make this dessert vegan?

Yes! Replace the butter with a dairy-free butter substitute and use a plant-based yogurt or non-dairy milk in the filling if needed.

How do I know when the crisp is done?

The topping should be golden brown, and the filling should be bubbling around the edges. You can also insert a toothpick into the topping to check if it’s firm and crunchy.

Conclusion

This Fresh Cherry Crisp is the perfect dessert for any summer gathering. With its sweet, juicy cherries and buttery, crunchy topping, it’s a comforting treat that everyone will love. Easy to make and even easier to devour, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at picnics, potlucks, and family dinners. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ve got a dessert that’s simply irresistible!