Cherry Crumble Recipe: A Modest Delight for Every Occasion

Introduction

There’s something magical about the simplicity of a fruit crumble. It’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a cold evening or a bright ray of sunshine on a summer day. Cherry crumble, in particular, stands out with its rich, tangy filling and buttery, golden topping. It’s a dessert you can make on a modest budget, with basic ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Today, we’ll guide you through a recipe that’s easy enough for beginners but so satisfying that even seasoned bakers will fall in love. Plus, we’ll answer the big question: Are there different ways to make this dessert?

Recipe Card

Description: A simple yet indulgent dessert combining sweet cherries with a crumbly, buttery topping.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: 280 per serving

Ingredients

For the cherry filling:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the crumble topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Serving Size: ~1/8 of the recipe (based on a standard 9-inch baking dish

Calories: 250–300 kcal

Protein: 2–3 g

Fat: 10–15 g

Carbohydrates: 40–45 g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to make: No special equipment or advanced skills required.
Budget-friendly: Uses affordable, pantry-staple ingredients.
Customizable: Perfect for adding your twist.
Quick prep time: Ready for the oven in just 15 minutes. Deliciously versatile: Great for any occasion, from casual family dinners to potlucks

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

Cherries: Fresh cherries provide the best flavor, but frozen cherries work well too. You can substitute cherries with other fruits like peaches, blueberries, or apples.
Oats: Rolled oats give a hearty texture to the crumble. Quick oats can be used but may result in a finer texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal, but salted butter can be used if you omit the additional salt in the recipe

How to Make Cherry Crumble Step by Step

Prepare your cherries:
- Ensure the cherries are pitted. If you’re using fresh cherries, rinse and dry them. Frozen cherries should be thawed and drained to avoid a watery filling.
Mix the filling:
- Combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla in a bowl. The cornstarch will help thicken the juices during baking, while the lemon juice enhances the flavor.
Create the crumble topping:
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add butter and work it into the dry ingredients using your fingertips or a pastry cutter until crumbly.
Layer the dish:
- Spread the cherry mixture evenly in your baking dish, then sprinkle the crumble topping over it, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Bake to perfection:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake until the topping turns golden brown, and the cherry juices are bubbling at the edges.
Cool slightly:
- Let the crumble rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to set.

Notes:

For a crispier topping, chill the crumble mixture in the fridge for 15 minutes before sprinkling it over the cherries.

If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain them to avoid excess liquid.

Adjust sugar levels based on the sweetness of your cherries

Expert Tips for Success

Chill the butter: Cold butter ensures a crumbly texture in the topping.

Don’t skip the cornstarch: It’s crucial for thickening the cherry filling.

Bake on a tray: Place the dish on a baking sheet to catch any drips and prevent oven mess.

Taste test: Sweeten the filling based on the natural sweetness of your cherries.

Variations and Customizations

Dietary modifications: Use gluten-free flour and oats for a gluten-free version. Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.

Flavor twists: Add a splash of almond extract to the filling for a nutty flavor or sprinkle slivered almonds over the topping.

Mix and match fruits: Combine cherries with other fruits like raspberries or blackberries for a unique twist.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers: Cover the dish tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 30 seconds or reheat the entire dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes.

Freezing: Assemble the crumble and freeze it unbaked. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing that enhances the warm, gooey filling.

Whipped cream: Light and airy, perfect for balancing the richness of the crumble.

Greek yogurt: A tangy alternative for a slightly healthier option.

FAQs

1. Are there different ways to make this recipe?

Absolutely! You can customize it by using different fruits, adjusting the sweetness, or adding nuts and spices to the topping.

2. Can I use canned cherries?

Yes, but make sure to drain them well and reduce the added sugar to avoid an overly sweet filling.

3. How do I prevent a soggy crumble?

Thaw and drain frozen fruit thoroughly and bake the crumble until the topping is golden and crisp.

Related Recipes

1. Peach Crisp: A sweet and tangy dessert perfect for summer nights.

2. Blueberry Cobbler: A juicy and buttery alternative with a biscuit-like topping.

3. Apple Crumble: A classic comfort dessert with warm cinnamon flavors.

4. Mixed Berry Galette: A rustic, freeform pie packed with berries.

Conclusion

Cherry crumble is the epitome of a modest recipe—simple, affordable, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced cook, this dessert is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. With its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, it’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to every bite.

So grab those cherries, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get baking!