There’s something timeless and comforting about a cherry crumble recipe. It’s the kind of dessert that makes your kitchen smell amazing, brings people to the table with smiles, and uses ingredients you probably already have on hand. I fell in love with this recipe during cherry season one summer, after picking up a huge bag of ripe, ruby-red cherries from a local farmer’s market. I wanted something that felt homey but not too fussy and that’s where this cherry crumble recipe really shines.
The beauty of this dessert is in its simplicity. Juicy, tart cherries bubble beneath a crisp, golden topping made with butter, oats, and brown sugar. It’s sweet but not overly so, and the texture contrast between the fruit and the crumble makes every bite feel exciting. This recipe is perfect for a casual weeknight treat, a holiday dessert spread, or even a make-ahead option for entertaining.
Whether you’re working with fresh cherries in summer or frozen ones in the colder months, this cherry crumble recipe adapts beautifully and it always delivers that warm, nostalgic feeling we all crave from homemade desserts.
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Why This Cherry Crumble Recipe Deserves a Spot in Your Favorites
Let’s talk about what makes this cherry crumble recipe so consistently delicious. First, the filling is a dream. Whether you use sweet cherries, sour cherries, or a mix of both, they become soft and juicy when baked, creating a deep, jammy base with just the right amount of tartness. I toss them with a little lemon juice and cornstarch to balance flavors and ensure the perfect consistency, not too runny, not too thick.
Then comes the topping. This is where many crumble recipes fall short. Mine includes a mix of rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and cold butter. But I also add a hint of cinnamon and a pinch of salt, which gives it that little something extra. It bakes up perfectly crisp, golden, and crumbly without turning soggy.
One of the reasons I love this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily make it gluten-free by swapping in almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Need it dairy-free? Use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute. And if you’re trying to cut back on sugar, you can reduce the amount in both the fruit and the topping without sacrificing flavor.
This cherry crumble recipe also scales beautifully. Make a large one for a crowd or split it into individual ramekins for dinner parties or cozy nights in. It’s a forgiving dessert that feels fancy even when it’s fuss-free.
Recipe Card
Cherry Crumble Recipe
6
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.
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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.
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Tips to Nail the Perfect Cherry Crumble Every Time
- 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.
Variants of This Classic Cherry Crumble Recipe
Cherry Almond Crumble
Add sliced almonds to the topping and a splash of almond extract to the filling. The almonds toast beautifully in the oven, adding crunch and a nutty depth that pairs perfectly with cherries.
Cherry Berry Crumble
Mix in blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries with the cherries for a more complex flavor. This is a great way to use up leftover berries and create a fruit-forward crumble that feels summery and bright.
Chocolate Cherry Crumble
Stir in a handful of mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate to the topping. The chocolate melts into the crumble and creates little pockets of richness—especially amazing when served warm.
Cherry Peach Crumble
Combine pitted cherries with sliced fresh peaches. The juicy peaches bring a floral sweetness that balances the tart cherries, making this variation perfect for peak summer produce.
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.
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.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Fiber: 4g
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Sugars: 25g
Fat: 12g
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.
Wrapping It Up
A good cherry crumble recipe is the kind of dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s warm, fruity, crunchy, and just sweet enough. What I love most is how easy it is to make, yet how impressive it feels to serve. Whether you top it with vanilla ice cream, a spoonful of thick cream, or enjoy it plain and warm out of the oven, it always hits the spot.
It’s also one of those recipes that never really goes out of style. It works in spring with early cherries, in summer at the peak of cherry season, and even in winter when frozen fruit saves the day. And thanks to the adaptable topping, it can be rustic or refined, whatever your occasion calls for.
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.
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.
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