Why You’ll Love this Sweet Cherry Crisp Recipe
Whether you’re a cherry lover or just someone who enjoys a delightful dessert, you’re going to fall for this Sweet Cherry Crisp.
The combination of sweet, juicy cherries and that crunchy, buttery topping is simply irresistible. I love how the flavors meld together, creating a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Plus, it’s easy to make, so I don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen. Every bite feels like a little slice of heaven, and when I serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream, I can’t help but smile.
Trust me; you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients of Sweet Cherry Crisp
Making a sweet cherry crisp is a delightful experience, especially when you gather all the ingredients. Let’s plunge into what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dessert. Trust me, once you have everything ready, you’ll be one step closer to enjoying that warm, sweet goodness.
Here’s your ingredient list for the Sweet Cherry Crisp:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 6 cups frozen cherries, pitted and thawed
- 1 cup quick-cooking oats (not regular oats)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (yep, again)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup sliced almonds
Now, as you gather these ingredients, there are a few things to keep in mind. First off, using quick-cooking oats is key; they create that perfect crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the juicy cherries.
If you accidentally grab regular oats, don’t fret, but the texture won’t be quite the same. And about those frozen cherries—make sure they’re pitted! Trust me, biting down on a cherry pit isn’t the kind of surprise anyone wants while enjoying dessert.
Also, feel free to play around with the nuts; if almonds aren’t your thing, pecans or walnuts can add a lovely twist. So, grab those ingredients, and let’s get ready for some baking magic!
How to Make Sweet Cherry Crisp

Making a Sweet Cherry Crisp isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about creating a cozy moment in your kitchen. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and jump into the fun of it.
First, preheat your oven to a warm 350 degrees F. While that warms up, lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking pan—preferably glass, because who doesn’t love watching that bubbling cherry goodness?
Now, in a large bowl, toss together 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Once they’re well mixed, gently fold in 6 cups of thawed, pitted frozen cherries. It’s like a little cherry party in there! Carefully spoon this luscious mixture into your greased pan, making sure to spread it out evenly.
Now, let’s work on the topping that will take this dessert to the next level. Grab another bowl and combine 1 cup of quick-cooking oats (remember, not the regular kind), 1/2 cup of firmly packed brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour. This is where the magic begins.
Using a pastry blender—or your trusty fingers, if you don’t have one—cut in 1/4 cup of unsalted butter until everything looks crumbly and delicious. It might feel a bit messy, but hey, that’s part of the fun, right? Once you have that crumbly goodness, stir in 1 cup of sliced almonds for that extra crunch.
Now, sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cherry layer like you’re adding a cozy blanket on a chilly night.
Pop it in the oven for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s hot, bubbly, and the topping is a beautiful golden brown. Just imagine that warm scent wafting through your home—it’s pure bliss.
Once it’s done, let it stand for 15 minutes on a wire rack. This waiting game is tough, but trust me, it’s worth it. After all, the anticipation just makes that first bite even sweeter.
Sweet Cherry Crisp Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic Sweet Cherry Crisp, experimenting with substitutions and variations can elevate this dessert to new heights.
For a gluten-free option, I often swap out the all-purpose flour for almond or coconut flour. If I want extra flavor, I’ll add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the topping.
Sometimes, I mix in other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a berry medley twist. For a crunchier topping, I’ve used crushed graham crackers instead of oats.
And if I’m feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top makes it even better!
What to Serve with Sweet Cherry Crisp
When I serve Sweet Cherry Crisp, I love to pair it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for that perfect contrast of warm and cold.
The ice cream melts slightly, creating a delightful mix with the tart cherries. Sometimes, I’ll add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness or serve it alongside a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a lighter touch.
A sprinkle of toasted almonds on top enhances the nutty flavor, too. Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a special occasion, these simple accompaniments elevate the dessert experience to another level.
Enjoy every bite!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Sweet Cherry Crisp turns out perfectly every time, I recommend using high-quality cherries, whether fresh or frozen.
Make sure to thaw frozen cherries completely, draining any excess liquid to avoid a soggy bottom.
Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps the juices set and makes for easier serving.
If you prefer a nut-free version, feel free to omit the almonds or substitute with your favorite nuts.
Finally, for an extra touch, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cherry mixture for a hint of warmth.
Enjoy your delicious dessert!