Cherry Crisp
There’s something truly special about a warm bowl of Cherry Crisp, especially when it’s made with love and fresh ingredients. I still remember the first time I tasted it at my grandmother’s kitchen table during summer visits. The sun poured through the window, illuminating the vibrant red cherries nestled under a golden oat topping. The aroma of baked cherries and cinnamon filled the air, beckoning us to the table. Every bite was a cozy embrace, a reminder of lazy summer afternoons spent picking cherries from the orchard. Now, I bring my own family together with this delightful dessert, creating new memories while honoring those sweet moments from my childhood.
Recipe Snapshot
60 mins
25 mins
35 mins
Medium
250 kcal
3 g
Gluten-Free
12 g
Wooden Spoon, Oven, Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Crisp
1. A Family Tradition
Making Cherry Crisp has always been a family affair. I love gathering the kids around, teaching them how to prepare the filling while sharing stories about my childhood. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a way to connect and share our love for baking.
2. Versatile and Adaptable
One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap in different fruits, like blueberries or peaches, based on what’s in season. This adaptability means you can enjoy a delicious crisp all year round, maintaining that homemade touch no matter the fruit!
3. Simple Yet Satisfying
With only a handful of ingredients, Cherry Crisp proves that simple can be extraordinary. The combination of sweet cherries and a crunchy oat topping creates a satisfying contrast that pleases the palate. It’s the kind of dessert that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a cozy winter evening, or an impromptu gathering, this dessert fits right in. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ve got a dish that will impress any guest and have them coming back for seconds.
5. Healthier Indulgence
Making Cherry Crisp can be a healthier alternative to many desserts. By using fresh or frozen cherries, you’re incorporating fruit into your diet. Plus, the use of oats instead of refined flour adds fiber, making each bite both delicious and nourishing.
Cherry Crisp Ingredients

The ingredients for Cherry Crisp are as important as the love you put into making it. Each element plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the sweet and tart cherries to the crunchy topping, these ingredients come together to create a stunning dessert that’s sure to delight. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 5 cups sweet or sour cherries, pitted (about 4 3/4 pounds); fresh or frozen and thawed
- â…“ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon pure almond extract
- 1 cup old fashioned rolled oats
- â…“ cup all purpose flour
- â…“ cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup lightly packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
- Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or yogurt for serving.
Step by Step Guide for Cherry Crisp

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Cherry Crisp. It’s easier than you might think, and the end result is a dish that’s sure to impress. Let’s get started!
- First, place the rack in the center of your oven and preheat it to 375 degrees F. This is the perfect temperature to ensure your crisp bakes evenly.
- Next, lightly coat a 9×9-inch pan or an 11×7-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. This step is crucial to ensure your crisp comes out easily once it’s baked.
- Now it’s time to prepare the filling. In a large bowl, gently stir together the cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Make sure everything is well combined, and don’t forget to add any juices that collect at the bottom of the bowl for extra flavor.
- Pour this delightful mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. This ensures that every bite has that luscious cherry filling.
- Moving on to the topping, in a medium bowl, stir together the oats, all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Combine these dry ingredients well.
- Next, pour in the melted butter and stir the mixture until it’s evenly moistened. You want the topping to be crumbly yet cohesive.
- Now, sprinkle the topping evenly over the cherries in the baking dish. It should cover the fruit generously, creating a beautiful contrast.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Keep an eye on it; you want that perfect golden hue!
- Once it’s done, let the Cherry Crisp stand for 10 minutes. This waiting period allows the filling to set slightly.
- When ready to serve, enjoy it warm, topped with your choice of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or yogurt for that extra touch of indulgence.
Things Worth Knowing
- Choosing Cherries: When selecting cherries, opt for ones that are plump and firm. If you’re using frozen, thaw them completely to ensure they bake evenly.
- Perfect Topping: The oat topping should be crumbly but not too dry. Mixing in some melted butter helps achieve that perfect texture.
- Serving Suggestions: Pairing your Cherry Crisp with vanilla ice cream adds a delightful creaminess that balances the tartness of the cherries.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dessert, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar based on your taste preferences or the tartness of the cherries.
- Storage Tips: Properly cover the Cherry Crisp and store it in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days without losing its charm.
Tips and Tricks about Cherry Crisp

Here are some essential tips to ensure your Cherry Crisp turns out perfect every time:
- Storage: To store leftovers, cover the crisp and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled before covering to avoid condensation.
- Freezing: If you want to prepare ahead, you can freeze Cherry Crisp in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Pairing: Serve this dish with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or yogurt for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
- Fruit Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with different fruits like peaches or blueberries for a fun twist on this classic recipe.
- Baking Dish Options: You can use various baking dish sizes, but ensure they’re appropriately greased to avoid sticking.
What to Pair With Cherry Crisp
When it comes to serving Cherry Crisp, you have plenty of delightful options to consider:
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream complements the warm crisp perfectly, creating a delicious contrast.
- Seasonal Fruits: Serve alongside fresh seasonal fruits for a refreshing touch. Berries or slices of fresh peaches work well.
- Breakfast Option: Consider enjoying this crisp for breakfast with a yogurt on top and a sprinkle of nuts for an energy boost.
- Picnic Treat: Cherry Crisp makes for a fantastic dessert at summer picnics. Pack it in a portable container and enjoy in the great outdoors.
- Occasional Dessert: This dessert is perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or casual weeknight treats. It’s versatile for any occasion!
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cherry Crisp is a heartwarming dessert that captures the essence of summer with its sweet and tart flavor profile. It’s easy to make, adaptable to different fruits, and perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try making this delightful crisp—whether for a family gathering or a cozy night at home. Every bite brings a little bit of nostalgia and comfort that everyone will love!

Cherry Crisp
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place rack in the center of oven and preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly coat a 9Ă—9-inch pan or 11Ă—7-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, gently stir together the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Pour into the prepared baking dish in an even layer (add any juices that collect on the bottom of the bowl too).
- Prepare the topping: In a medium bowl, stir together the oats, all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter, then stir until the mixture is combined and evenly moistened.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the cherries.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and topping is golden. Let stand 10 minutes. Serve warm topped with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or yogurt.
Notes
- If using sour cherries: Add 2 tablespoons additional sugar to the filling.
- To Store: Cover the crisp, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees F until hot, or in the microwave in a pinch.
- To Freeze: Store Cherry Crisp in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.


