Easy Cherry Crisp – A Classic Dessert with Fresh or Frozen Cherries
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Easy Cherry Crisp is a comforting old-fashioned dessert made with fresh or frozen cherries and a buttery, sweet crumb topping. It’s a simple, no-fuss recipe using everyday ingredients – perfect for weeknights or family gatherings. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Save and share this classic recipe today!
Ingredients
For the Cherry Filling:
5 to 6 cups cherries (fresh or frozen), pitted
1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on cherry sweetness)
For the Topping:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 large egg, unbeaten
1/3 cup butter, melted
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare Cherries: In a bowl, mix the pitted cherries with 1/4 cup sugar. Tailor the sugar amount depending on the tartness or sweetness of your cherries.
Assemble in Baking Dish: Pour the cherry mixture into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
Make Topping: In a separate bowl, combine flour, remaining 1 cup sugar, baking powder, salt, and the unbeaten egg. Mix until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Add Topping to Cherries: Evenly sprinkle the crumbly topping over the cherries in the baking dish.
Add Butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the topping, ensuring even coverage.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly.
Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Delicious when served warm, especially topped with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Notes
Use thawed and drained cherries if frozen.
Adjust sugar to taste based on how tart your cherries are.
For added crunch, sprinkle in some chopped nuts.
Great with a homemade or store-bought vanilla ice cream topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Did you know that cherry consumption in the U.S. peaks in July, yet you can enjoy a warm, comforting cherry crisp any time of the year? Whether you’re indulging in summer’s bounty or tapping into your freezer stash, this easy cherry crisp recipe brings the nostalgic flavors of a classic dessert to your table with minimal effort.
This old-fashioned cherry crisp is a versatile dessert that combines the tartness of cherries with a sweet, crumbly topping. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a simple weeknight treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity: Requires only a handful of pantry staples.
- Versatility: Works with both fresh and frozen cherries.
- Flavorful: The combination of tart cherries and sweet topping is irresistible.
- Comforting: A warm dessert that’s perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
For the Cherry Filling:
- 5 to 6 cups cherries (fresh or frozen), pitted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (modify according to how sweet or tart the cherries are)
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg, unbeaten
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
How to Make Easy Cherry Crisp
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Cherries: In a bowl, mix the pitted cherries with 1/4 cup sugar. Tailor the sugar amount depending on the tartness or sweetness of your cherries.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Pour the cherry mixture into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Make Topping: In a separate bowl, combine flour, remaining 1 cup sugar, baking powder, salt, and the unbeaten egg. Mix until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Add Topping to Cherries: Evenly sprinkle the crumbly topping over the cherries in the baking dish.
- Add Butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the topping, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly.
- Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Delicious when served warm, especially topped with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Helpful Tips
- Cherry Selection: If using frozen cherries, ensure they are thawed and drained to prevent excess moisture.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Taste your cherries beforehand. If they are particularly tart, consider adding a bit more sugar to the filling.
- Topping Texture: For a crunchier topping, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts like almonds or pecans.
Substitutions and Variations
- Flour Alternatives: Whole wheat flour can be used for a nuttier flavor.
- Sugar Alternatives: Brown sugar can replace granulated sugar for a deeper sweetness.
- Add-Ins: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the topping for added warmth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned cherries?
Yes, but ensure they are well-drained. Canned cherries may be sweeter, so adjust the added sugar accordingly.
How do I store leftovers?
Place any remaining cherry crisp in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to three days
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the cherry filling and topping separately, store them in the refrigerator, and assemble just before baking.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: After the crisp has cooled, wrap it tightly or place in a sealed container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days
- Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 30 seconds or reheat the entire dish in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Conclusion
This easy cherry crisp recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of cherries year-round. Its simplicity and versatility make it a go-to dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic or a cozy winter dinner, it’s sure to impress.