The Cherry Crisp Recipe is a delightful dessert that balances the sweetness of cherries with a crunchy oat topping. Perfect for any occasion, this dish offers a comforting comfort food experience. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic or enjoying a cozy evening at home, this cherry crisp will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Pastry:
- For the Filling:
- For the Topping:
- How to Make Cherry Crisp Recipe
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Pastry
- Step 3: Make the Cherry Filling
- Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- Step 5: Bake and Serve
- How to Serve Cherry Crisp Recipe
- Serve with Ice Cream
- Top with Whipped Cream
- Enjoy with Fresh Fruits
- Pair with Nuts
- How to Perfect Cherry Crisp Recipe
- Best Side Dishes for Cherry Crisp Recipe
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Cherry Crisp Recipe
- Reheating Cherry Crisp Recipe
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I make a Cherry Crisp Recipe gluten-free?
- Can I use frozen cherries in my Cherry Crisp Recipe?
- What can I serve with Cherry Crisp Recipe?
- How long does Cherry Crisp Recipe last?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for novice bakers.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of tart cherries and a sweet, crunchy topping creates a mouthwatering dessert that everyone will love.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoy it plain; either way, it’s delicious!
- Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner, this cherry crisp fits right in.
- Healthy Twist: Using fresh cherries makes this recipe a healthier dessert choice compared to many store-bought options.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Cherry Crisp Recipe successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that streamline the process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish (2-quart or 11×7-inch)
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry cutter (optional)
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of your cherry crisp.
- Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
- Saucepan: Used for cooking the cherry filling to the perfect consistency before baking.
- Pastry cutter: Helps create a crumbly topping effortlessly if you prefer not to use your hands.
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 (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Pastry
- In a mixing bowl, combine the salt, brown sugar, and flour.
- Cut in the cold butter until you achieve a crumbly texture.
- Press this mixture into a greased 2-quart or 11×7-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Cherry Filling
While the pastry bakes:
1. In a saucepan, mix together the sugar and cornstarch.
2. Stir in the cherry juice blend and cook over medium heat until thickened, stirring constantly.
3. Fold in the pitted tart red cherries and pour this mixture over your baked crust.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl:
1. Combine oats, brown sugar, and flour for the topping.
2. Cut in cold butter until you have a crumbly mixture.
3. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the cherry filling.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly around the edges. Let cool slightly before serving warm with vanilla ice cream! Enjoy your homemade Cherry Crisp Recipe!
How to Serve Cherry Crisp Recipe
Cherry crisp is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Whether you prefer it warm or cold, there are plenty of options to elevate your cherry crisp experience.
Serve with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing that complements the tartness of cherries.
- Chocolate Ice Cream: Adds a rich, decadent twist for chocolate lovers.
- Coconut Ice Cream: Offers a unique flavor that enhances the cherry’s sweetness.
Top with Whipped Cream
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, perfect for enhancing the dessert’s richness.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Try using vanilla or almond extract for an extra layer of flavor.
Enjoy with Fresh Fruits
- Sliced Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a burst of fruity freshness alongside the cherry crisp.
- Raspberries: Their tartness pairs well with the sweetness of the crisp.
Pair with Nuts
- Chopped Pecans: Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for added crunch and nuttiness.
- Almonds: Sliced almonds can enhance both texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Cherry Crisp Recipe
Perfecting your cherry crisp recipe is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to ensure your crisp turns out amazing every time.
- Use fresh cherries: Fresh tart cherries will give the best flavor and texture compared to canned or frozen options.
- Add spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the overall flavor profile of your cherry filling.
- Adjust sweetness: Depending on your taste, you may want to tweak the sugar amount in both the filling and topping.
- Let it cool slightly: Allowing it to cool for a few minutes after baking helps set the filling before serving.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding nuts or coconut flakes into your oat topping for varied texture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Cherry Crisp Recipe
While cherry crisp is delicious on its own, adding a side dish can create a more balanced meal. Here are some great side dishes that pair well with this dessert.
- Greek Yogurt: A creamy, tangy addition that balances sweetness while adding protein.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds color and variety to your table.
- Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses can offer a savory contrast to the sweet cherry flavors.
- Pancakes: Light and fluffy pancakes can serve as an excellent base for cherry crisp toppings at breakfast.
- Granola: Crunchy granola can be served on the side for an extra layer of texture and health benefits.
- Chocolate Cake: For those who love indulgence, chocolate cake offers rich flavors that complement cherries wonderfully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making this cherry crisp recipe, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:
- Using Warm Butter: Using warm butter can lead to a greasy crust instead of a flaky one. Always use cold butter to achieve the best texture.
- Skipping the Pre-Bake: Failing to pre-bake the crust can result in a soggy bottom. Make sure to bake it for the recommended time before adding the filling.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Guessing ingredient amounts can ruin the balance of flavors. Use precise measurements for sugar, flour, and cherries for best results.
- Overmixing the Topping: Overmixing can make your topping dense instead of crumbly. Mix just until combined for that perfect crunch.
- Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting into the crisp immediately after baking can lead to messy servings. Allow it to cool slightly for better slicing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Cherry Crisp Recipe
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Cherry Crisp Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake covered with foil for about 15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 30-60 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this delicious cherry crisp recipe:
How do I make a Cherry Crisp Recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend. Ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I use frozen cherries in my Cherry Crisp Recipe?
Yes! Frozen cherries work well; just thaw and drain excess liquid before using them in the filling.
What can I serve with Cherry Crisp Recipe?
This dessert pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
How long does Cherry Crisp Recipe last?
When stored properly, it lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months if frozen.
Final Thoughts
This cherry crisp recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or using different berries. Whether enjoyed on its own or topped with ice cream, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try this delightful dessert today!
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Cherry Crisp Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Cherry Crisp Recipe, a perfect dessert that combines juicy tart cherries with a crunchy oat topping. This easy-to-make treat is ideal for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer picnic or enjoying a cozy evening at home. The contrast of sweet and tart, along with the satisfying crunch, makes every bite irresistible. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an elevated experience that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth!
Ingredients
- 4 cups pitted tart red cherries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (for both pastry and topping)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (1 cup for pastry and 1/4 cup for topping)
- 1–1/2 cups quick-cooking rolled oats
- 5 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- For the pastry, combine salt, brown sugar, and flour in a mixing bowl. Cut in cold butter until crumbly, then press into a greased baking dish and pre-bake for 15 minutes.
- In a saucepan, mix sugar and cornstarch. Stir in cherry juice blend and cook until thickened. Fold in cherries and pour over baked crust.
- For the topping, mix oats, brown sugar, and flour; cut in melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle on top of cherry filling.
- Bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of the crisp (about 120g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg