Few desserts evoke the warmth of home and the comfort of simpler times like a crumble. This cherry crumble recipe isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience—one that blends the vibrant tanginess of cherries with a buttery, golden topping that melts in your mouth.
Whether you’re preparing for a cozy family dinner or looking for the perfect addition to your list of New Year’s dessert recipes, this crumble delivers joy in every bite. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity: minimal effort with maximum payoff. With a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top, it becomes a dessert masterpiece that you’ll want to make over and over.
Cherries, with their luscious texture and bright flavor, shine in this recipe, while the crumble topping provides the perfect contrast of sweet, buttery crunch. If you’re ready to indulge in a dessert that feels both indulgent and nostalgic, this recipe for cherry crumble will be your new go-to favorite.
Cherry Crumble Recipe
Cuisine: EuroppeanDifficulty: Easy6
servings15
minutes40
minutes320
kcalThis cherry crumble recipe is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy cherries topped with a buttery, crunchy crumble. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- For the Cherry Filling:
4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the Crumble Topping:
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup rolled oats
½ cup brown sugar
½ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the Cherry Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well and spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish.
- Make the Crumble Topping: In another bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the cherry filling.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the crumble to cool slightly before serving. Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Cherry Type: Tart cherries work best, but sweet cherries can be used if balanced with extra lemon juice.
- Thicker Filling: Increase the cornstarch by ½ tablespoon for a thicker consistency.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips for Perfect Cherry Crumble Recipe
- Layering Matters: Ensure the cherry filling is evenly spread across the dish before adding the crumble topping for consistent bites.
- Choose the Right Dish: Use a shallow baking dish to ensure even heat distribution for both the cherries and the crumble.
- Use Fresh Cherries: If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain them to prevent excess liquid from making the crumble soggy.
- Experiment with Sweetness: Add a pinch of nutmeg or almond extract to elevate the flavors.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the crumble in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake just before serving for a freshly baked taste.
Recipe Variants
- Mixed Berry Crumble: Replace cherries with a combination of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries.
- Apple-Cherry Crumble: Add sliced apples to the cherry filling for a mix of textures and flavors.
- Chocolate Cherry Crumble: Sprinkle chocolate chips into the filling or topping for a rich twist.
- Gluten-Free Cherry Crumble: Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
- Cherry Peach Crumble: Combine ripe peaches with cherries for a summery, fruit-forward crumble.
FAQ for Cherry Crumble Recipe
Yes, but ensure you drain them well and reduce the added sugar, as canned cherries are often sweetened.
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked crumble for up to 2 months. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
Adding chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans to the topping creates an extra crunchy texture.
Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter.
Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
If you enjoyed this cherry crumble, why not try another delightful dessert? Check out our Blueberry Cobbler Recipe for a timeless treat that pairs beautifully with any occasion.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Fiber: 4g
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Sugars: 25g
Fat: 12g
Health Benefits of Cherry Crumble Recipe
- Rich in Antioxidants: Cherries are packed with antioxidants like anthocyanins, which help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
- Good Source of Fiber: The combination of cherries and oats provides a healthy dose of fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
- Energy-Boosting Carbs: This dessert provides a quick energy boost, making it a great post-meal treat for active days.
- Mood-Enhancing Properties: Cherries contain natural melatonin and serotonin precursors, which may help improve sleep and mood.
- Customizable for Healthier Options: Easily adapt the recipe by reducing sugar or swapping for whole-grain flour to make it more nutritious.
Pairing Suggestions for Cherry Crumble Recipe
- Beverages:
- Pair the crumble with a warm cup of Earl Grey tea or vanilla chai latte for a cozy vibe.
- Serve it alongside a glass of rosé wine or a light Prosecco for a celebratory occasion.
- Sides:
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the tartness of the cherries.
- For a more indulgent touch, drizzle with dark chocolate sauce or salted caramel.
- Main Course:
- Serve after a light main course, such as a herb-crusted salmon or a roasted vegetable tart, to keep the meal balanced.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overloading with Sugar:
Avoid adding too much sugar to the filling; the natural sweetness of cherries should shine through. - Skipping the Draining Step for Frozen Cherries:
Excess water from thawed cherries can lead to a soggy crumble. Always drain them well. - Not Chilling the Butter:
Cold butter is crucial for achieving a crumbly, crisp topping. Warm butter can make the topping too dense. - Uneven Layering:
Ensure the cherries and crumble topping are spread evenly to prevent overly juicy spots or dry patches. - Baking at the Wrong Temperature:
Baking too hot can burn the topping before the cherries are fully cooked. Stick to the recommended temperature for best results.
Baking Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing Bowls: For preparing the cherry filling and crumble topping.
- Baking Dish: Use a shallow glass or ceramic dish for even baking.
- Pastry Cutter or Fork: To incorporate the butter into the crumble topping.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
- Oven Mitts: Essential for safely handling the hot baking dish.
Fun Fact About Cherry Crumble
The cherry crumble originated as a thrifty dessert during World War II in Britain when rationing limited access to traditional pie ingredients. Instead of using pastry for pies, home cooks improvised with a crumbly topping made of flour, butter, and sugar. Over time, this dessert became a beloved classic, appreciated for its simplicity and ability to showcase seasonal fruits.
The cherry crumble recipe is a simple yet spectacular dessert that combines the best of summer’s tangy cherries with a crunchy, buttery topping. Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for the perfect ending to a family dinner, this dish never fails to impress. Its versatility allows for endless variations, while its nostalgic flavor is universally loved.
Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to elevate the experience, or enjoy it as is to appreciate the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Make this dessert your own and let it become a tradition for celebrations like New Year’s dessert recipes or cozy weeknight indulgences.
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