If you are searching for a dessert that perfectly captures the essence of summer, you have found it with the Irresistible Cherry Crumble with Fresh Summer Cherries Recipe. This delightful dish bursts with juicy, sweet cherries enveloped in a warm, buttery crumble topping that adds just the right amount of crisp and spice. Whether you are making it for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of fresh summer cherries in a comforting and charming dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the first step to creating an unforgettable Irresistible Cherry Crumble with Fresh Summer Cherries Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from the luscious cherries providing natural sweetness and color to the crumble topping adding texture and deeper flavor notes.
- Fresh pitted sweet cherries (5 cups): The star of the dish, these bring vibrant color and juicy sweetness that shines through.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): A touch of sweetness to enhance the cherries without overpowering them.
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): Helps thicken the cherry filling for that perfect consistency.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds bright acidity to balance the sweetness and elevate the fruit flavors.
- Almond extract (1/2 teaspoon): Offers a subtle nutty aroma that complements the cherries beautifully.
- Old-fashioned oats (3/4 cup): Adds hearty texture and chewy goodness to the crumble topping.
- All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Provides structure for the topping to hold together while baking.
- Brown sugar, packed (1/3 cup): Gives a rich, caramel note and moisture to the crumble.
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses warm, inviting spice throughout the topping.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances overall flavor by balancing the sweet elements.
- Unsalted butter, cold and cubed (6 tablespoons): Creates a flaky, golden topping with a luscious buttery taste.
How to Make Irresistible Cherry Crumble with Fresh Summer Cherries Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, toss together the fresh pitted sweet cherries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract. This combination not only sweetens and thickens the filling but also brings a gentle tang and fragrant hint of almond. Once everything is evenly coated, transfer the mixture into a greased 9-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly to prepare for the topping.
Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping
Next, in a separate bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. The oats add chewiness while cinnamon infuses the crumble with comforting spice. Now, the crucial step: add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend everything together until it looks like coarse crumbs. This ensures the topping bakes into a golden, crispy layer that contrasts beautifully with the tender cherry filling.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the cherry mixture in your baking dish, making sure to cover all the juicy filling beneath. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the topping is beautifully golden brown and you see the cherry filling bubbling around the edges. This bubbling is a sure sign all the flavors have melded together into something truly special.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the cherry crumble to cool for at least 15 minutes. This step helps the filling set slightly and makes for easier serving. Plus, the wait builds anticipation for that first spoonful of warm, fruity, and crunchy delight!
How to Serve Irresistible Cherry Crumble with Fresh Summer Cherries Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing elevates the experience of this irresistible treat like a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting into the warm crumble. Alternatively, a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy finish that pairs perfectly with the rich textures. For a little crunch, sprinkle some toasted almonds on top for added nuttiness and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This cherry crumble stands well on its own as a dessert but pairing it with a lightly brewed herbal tea or a chilled glass of dessert wine can truly enhance your dining experience. For brunch, try serving it alongside a simple yogurt parfait or fresh fruit salad to keep things bright and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests, serve the crumble in individual ramekins or mason jars for charming portions. You can even layer the cherry crumble with whipped mascarpone or cream cheese between the filling and topping for a luscious twist. Adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce can also create a memorable visual and flavor pop.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any of this Irresistible Cherry Crumble with Fresh Summer Cherries Recipe leftover, simply cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy the flavors beyond your first serving.
Freezing
This crumble freezes wonderfully! After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your cherry crumble gently in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain the crispiness of the topping while warming the juicy filling just right. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the topping soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen cherries are a great alternative when fresh cherries are out of season. Just be sure to thaw and drain them very well to avoid a watery filling before using in this Irresistible Cherry Crumble with Fresh Summer Cherries Recipe.
Is there a way to make the crumble topping gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. This allows the topping to remain just as delicious and crunchy while accommodating dietary needs.
Can I prepare any part of this recipe ahead of time?
For sure! You can mix the cherry filling up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. The crumble topping can also be prepped ahead and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. Just assemble and bake as directed for a fresh dessert.
What can I serve this dessert with?
This cherry crumble pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce for extra indulgence. Hot tea or coffee also complement this dessert nicely, enhancing the cozy vibe.
How do I know when the crumble is done baking?
You’ll want to look for a golden brown topping and a bubbly cherry filling. The bubbling around the edges indicates that the fruit has cooked down and thickened properly, signaling that your Irresistible Cherry Crumble with Fresh Summer Cherries Recipe is ready to come out of the oven!
Final Thoughts
There is truly something magical about the balance of sweet, tangy cherries and a buttery, crunchy topping, and the Irresistible Cherry Crumble with Fresh Summer Cherries Recipe captures this perfectly. I wholeheartedly encourage you to experiment with it and make it your own—it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your dessert rotation, reminding you of sunny days and simple pleasures in every bite.
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Irresistible Cherry Crumble with Fresh Summer Cherries Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Irresistible Cherry Crumble features fresh summer cherries baked under a crispy, buttery oat topping. A perfect balance of sweet and tart with a hint of almond, this classic American dessert is easy to prepare and delightful to serve warm, especially with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
Cherry Filling
- 5 cups fresh pitted sweet cherries
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Crumble Topping
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold and cut into small cubes)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the crumble evenly.
- Prepare Cherry Filling: In a large bowl, toss together the fresh pitted cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract until the cherries are fully coated. This mixture will create a flavorful and thickened fruit base.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the cherry mixture into a greased 9-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly to form the base layer of the crumble.
- Make Crumble Topping: In another bowl, combine the oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend everything until it resembles coarse crumbs with small chunks.
- Assemble Crumble: Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the cherry filling, covering it thoroughly to ensure a golden, crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the crumble topping turns golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow the crumble to cool for at least 15 minutes to set. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic dessert experience.
- You can substitute frozen cherries; just be sure to thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
