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There’s something undeniably joyful about homemade desserts, especially those that evoke nostalgia. The warm, inviting scent of a fruit crisp baking in the oven can transport you back to cherished memories of family gatherings and summer picnics. Among the many delightful options, Cherry Crisp stands out as a beloved classic, marrying the sweetness of ripe cherries with a crunchy, buttery topping. This Crispy Cherry Crisp recipe is not only a celebration of seasonal flavors but also an incredibly versatile dessert that can effortlessly elevate any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive celebrations.

Crispy Cherry Crisp

Indulge in the nostalgia of homemade desserts with this delightful Crispy Cherry Crisp recipe. Perfectly blending sweet and tart cherries with a crunchy, buttery topping, this dessert captures the essence of summer gatherings. Made using fresh or frozen cherries, it's a versatile treat suitable for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you'll create a warm, inviting dessert that's sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the joy of baking and savor every delicious bite!

Ingredients
  

For the Cherry Filling:

4 cups of fresh or frozen pitted cherries

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional for enhanced flavor)

1/4 teaspoon fine salt

For the Crispy Topping:

1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans are excellent choices)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by greasing it with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter for easy removal.

    Prepare the Cherry Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pitted cherries with granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt. Gently toss the mixture until the cherries are thoroughly coated in the sweet and tangy mixture. Carefully transfer this cherry filling into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it’s spread evenly across the bottom.

      Make the Crispy Topping: In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped nuts. Whisk together until well blended. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture clumps together and resembles coarse crumbs, ensuring that the butter is evenly distributed throughout.

        Assemble the Dish: Evenly distribute the crispy topping over the cherry filling in the baking dish, ensuring every juicy cherry is generously covered with the topping.

          Bake: Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The topping should become golden brown, and the cherry filling should be visibly bubbling around the edges, creating a delightful aroma.

            Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cherry crisp from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes to set slightly. Serve warm by scooping out portions into bowls. For an indulgent touch, top each serving with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fluffy whipped cream, if desired.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | Serves 8

                - Presentation Tips: Serve in individual ramekins for a rustic touch, or present in a family-style dish with a scoop of ice cream on top for added indulgence. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color!