Description
This Fresh Cherry Crisp is a delightful dessert that combines juicy, ripe cherries with a crunchy, buttery oat topping. Baked to golden perfection, it offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors with a hint of almond and lemon zest. Ideal for serving warm with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, this cherry crisp is a comforting and easy-to-make treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
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
- 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
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×11-inch baking dish, 9-inch square or round baking dish, or a 9-inch deep pie plate thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Crisp Topping: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, rolled oats, chopped pecans (if using), lemon zest, vanilla extract, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir to mix everything evenly. Pour in the melted unsalted butter and mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. For best results, place the topping mixture in the freezer for up to 30 minutes to allow it to firm up slightly before baking.
- Prepare the Cherry Filling: In another bowl, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and optional almond extract. Stir well until the cherries are evenly coated and the mixture starts to thicken slightly.
- Add the Topping: Spread the cherry filling evenly in the prepared baking dish. Then sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the cherries, ensuring full coverage.
- Bake the Crisp: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes. The crisp topping should turn a beautiful golden brown, and cherry juices will bubble around the edges, indicating the filling is cooked and thickened.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the crisp from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Serve warm on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delicious finishing touch.
Notes
- Freezing the topping before baking helps achieve a crisper texture.
- Use fresh, ripe cherries for the best flavor; tart cherries work well if you prefer a tangier taste.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or omit nuts for a nut-free version.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and oats labeled gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently before serving.
