The Cherry Crisp Recipe is a warm, comforting dessert that perfectly balances the tartness of cherries with a sweet, crunchy topping. This dish is not just a treat for your taste buds but also an excellent choice for various occasions, from summer picnics to cozy family dinners. Serve it warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful experience that will leave everyone asking for more.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Crisp Recipe
This recipe stands out for several reasons:
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cherry crisp comes together in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet cherries and a buttery oat topping creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion—family gatherings, potlucks, or just a weeknight treat.
- Healthier Option: Made with fresh fruit and oats, it’s a delightful way to enjoy dessert while incorporating some wholesome ingredients.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different fruits like blueberries or peaches for variations!
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools can enhance your experience while making this cherry crisp. Here are the essential items you will need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish (2-quart or 11×7-inch)
- Saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for preparing the pastry and filling mixtures without making a mess.
- Baking dish: Provides the perfect size and shape to allow even baking of your cherry crisp.
- Saucepan: Necessary for cooking the cherry filling to achieve that thick consistency.
Ingredients
The delightful contrast of juicy tart cherries and a crunchy oat topping creates an absolutely irresistible cherry crisp recipe. Serve it warm with your favorite vanilla ice cream!
For the Pastry
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
For the Filling
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup cherry juice blend
- 4 cups pitted tart red cherries
For the Topping
- 1-1/2 cups quick-cooking rolled oats
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 5 tablespoons butter, melted
How to Make Cherry Crisp Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F degrees. In a mixing bowl, combine salt, sugar, and flour. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Press this dough firmly into a greased 2-quart or 11×7-inch baking dish. Bake for about 15 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling
While the pastry bakes, combine sugar and cornstarch in a saucepan. Stir in the cherry juice blend. Cook over medium heat until thickened, stirring constantly. Once thickened, fold in the pitted tart cherries and pour this mixture over the baked crust.
Step 3: Make the Topping
In another bowl, combine quick-cooking rolled oats, brown sugar, and flour for the topping. Cut in cold butter until it becomes crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cherry filling.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden Brown
Return your dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly around the edges. Let it cool slightly before serving warm with ice cream!
How to Serve Cherry Crisp Recipe
Serving your cherry crisp recipe can elevate the experience of this delicious dessert. Whether you prefer it warm or cold, there are many delightful ways to enjoy this crowd-pleaser.
Serve with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that complements the tartness of the cherries.
- Chocolate Ice Cream: Adds a rich sweetness that balances the flavors perfectly.
Pair with Whipped Cream
- Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it enhances the cherry flavor without overpowering it.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding a hint of vanilla or almond for an extra layer of taste.
Enjoy with Yogurt
- Greek Yogurt: Offers a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
- Vanilla Yogurt: This sweet option can serve as a lighter alternative to ice cream.
Add Nuts for Crunch
- Chopped Walnuts: Sprinkle these on top for added flavor and crunch.
- Sliced Almonds: Their delicate taste pairs well with the cherry filling.
How to Perfect Cherry Crisp Recipe
To achieve the ultimate cherry crisp recipe, follow these helpful tips that ensure a delicious result every time.
- Use Fresh Cherries: Fresh, ripe cherries will give your crisp the best flavor and texture.
- Chill Your Butter: Cold butter in both the pastry and topping is key for achieving a flaky, crumbly texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix your topping ingredients just until combined to keep it light and crunchy.
- Add Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the overall flavor profile of your cherry crisp.
- Serve Warm: Cherry crisp is best enjoyed warm, allowing its flavors to shine alongside melting ice cream or whipped cream.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Cherry Crisp Recipe
While cherry crisp is delightful on its own, pairing it with side dishes can create a more rounded meal. Here are some perfect accompaniments:
- Grilled Chicken: Lightly seasoned grilled chicken offers a savory contrast to the sweet dessert.
- Salad Greens: A fresh salad with vinaigrette balances the sweetness and adds freshness to your meal.
- Cheese Platter: Include cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an elegant touch that complements dessert flavors.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can enhance your meal while keeping things light and healthy.
- Roasted Vegetables: Savory roasted vegetables provide depth and contrast against the sweet cherry filling.
- Baked Brie: Warm baked brie with honey adds rich creaminess that pairs beautifully with cherry flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a cherry crisp is simple, but small mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using Warm Butter: If you use warm butter in your pastry, it will not create the desired flaky texture. Always ensure your butter is cold and cubed before mixing.
- Overmixing the Topping: Overmixing can lead to a tough topping instead of a crumbly one. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
- Not Pitting Cherries Properly: Leaving pits in cherries can be hazardous and unpleasant. Always make sure to pit your cherries thoroughly before use.
- Skipping the Pre-Baking Step: Failing to pre-bake the crust may result in a soggy bottom. Always bake the crust before adding the filling for optimal texture.
- Ignoring Oven Calibration: An oven that isn’t at the right temperature can affect baking times. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperatures.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cherry crisp in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions
- Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Cherry crisp can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cherry Crisp Recipe?
A cherry crisp recipe combines tart cherries with a sweet oat topping, baked until bubbly and golden brown. It’s a delightful dessert often enjoyed warm.
Can I Use Frozen Cherries for Cherry Crisp Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just make sure they are pitted and slightly thawed before incorporating them into your filling.
How Do I Make Cherry Crisp Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this cherry crisp recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free.
Can I Customize My Cherry Crisp Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch or mix in other fruits such as blueberries or raspberries for varied flavors.
How Should I Serve Cherry Crisp Recipe?
Cherry crisp is best served warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
Final Thoughts
This cherry crisp recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy it plain or dressed up with ice cream, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite fruits and toppings!
Cherry Crisp Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful warmth of this Cherry Crisp Recipe, a classic dessert that perfectly marries the tartness of fresh cherries with a sweet, buttery oat topping. Ideal for summer picnics or cozy family dinners, this easy-to-make dish is sure to impress and satisfy your sweet cravings. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable treat that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 cups pitted tart red cherries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 cup cherry juice blend
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (for pastry and topping)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus 1/4 cup for topping)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup quick-cooking rolled oats
- 7.5 tablespoons cold butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine salt, brown sugar, and flour. Cut in cold butter until crumbly and press into a greased baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes.
- For the filling, mix sugar and cornstarch in a saucepan. Stir in cherry juice blend and cook over medium heat until thickened. Fold in cherries and pour over the baked crust.
- For the topping, combine oats, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter until crumbly, then sprinkle over the filling.
- Bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
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