Cherry Almond Crisp
There’s something undeniably cozy about a warm Cherry Almond Crisp bubbling in the oven, its sweet and nutty aroma wafting through the air and luring everyone to the kitchen for a taste. This indulgent dessert is a beautiful blend of tart, juicy cherries and a crunchy, buttery almond topping that will make your heart sing. It’s the kind of dish that takes you back to simpler times, perhaps sharing a summer day with family or friends, relishing every comforting bite.
Made with just a handful of wholesome ingredients and ready in under an hour, this Cherry Almond Crisp is not only a feast for the senses but also a nostalgic journey that everyone can partake in. Young or old, this recipe is perfect for everyone, whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself after a long day.
What’s on Your Dessert Radar?
Ever experience that moment when you’re craving something sweet and warm, but you can’t quite put your finger on it? Maybe you’ve been dreaming about a comforting, gooey dessert that warms you to the bone after a chilly day, or a quick treat to satisfy that sweet-tooth urge. The Cherry Almond Crisp is here to answer that call—ready to transform your cravings into joyful satisfaction!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to prepare, you’ll adore the Cherry Almond Crisp. With minimal fuss and just ten ingredients, you can whip this up without breaking a sweat. It’s perfect for entertaining as it never fails to impress, yet it’s simple enough for any weeknight treat.
Moreover, the beautiful balance of flavors—from the tartness of the cherries to the nuttiness of the almonds—makes this crisp a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, the dish is versatile; you can serve it warm straight from the oven or chill it and savor the flavors later.
Ingredients
4 cups Frozen Cherries
(The star of this dish, packed with antioxidants.)1/2 cup Maple Syrup
(Rich and enhances the overall depth of flavors.)1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
(Adds a refreshing zing.)1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
(Creates a delightful base note.)2 tablespoons Arrowroot Powder or Cornstarch
(Essential for thickening the cherry filling.)1 cup Rolled Oats
(Provides texture and a nutty flavor.)1/2 cup Finely Chopped Almonds
(Adds distinct crunch and nuttiness.)1/2 cup Almond Flour
(Gluten-free alternative that enriches the topping.)1/4 teaspoon Salt
(Balances sweetness.)1/4 cup Coconut Oil
(Adds richness and subtle coconut flavor.)1 teaspoon Almond Extract
(Enhances the nutty flavor.)
Each ingredient in this blissful mix contributes its own charm, promising a dessert that is not only delightful but also sure to evoke happy memories.
Timing
This Cherry Almond Crisp is designed for those who appreciate both fast and indulgent. Within 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this beauty assembled and ready for the oven. In just another 30 minutes, the warm, gooey crisp will be tantalizing your taste buds.
Alternatively, if you want to take things slow and luxurious, you could enjoy an effortless afternoon baking session, letting the aroma envelop your home. Either way, the anticipation of diving into a heavenly dessert will be well worth it!
Step-by-Step
Preparation
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen cherries, maple syrup, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and arrowroot powder. Stir gently until everything is well mixed, letting those flavors meld together.
Assembly
Pour the cherry mixture into a baking dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. In another bowl, combine rolled oats, finely chopped almonds, almond flour, salt, and melted coconut oil with almond extract. Mix until crumbly and spread over the cherry filling, creating a deliciously crunchy layer on top.
Baking
Slide your creation into the oven and let it bake for about 30 minutes. The topping should turn golden brown while the cherries bubble beneath, inviting you to take a peek and sample the goodness.
Serving
Once baked, let the crisp cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and watch as those molten, gooey cherries contrast against the crunchy topping.
Nutritional Information
This Cherry Almond Crisp clocks in at approximately 300 calories per serving, making it a delightful treat that’s perfect for special occasions or a well-deserved indulgence after a long day.
While it’s packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s still a sweet indulgence—perfectly acceptable (and often encouraged) to enjoy every once in a while!
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, consider these adjustments:
- Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener to cut down on sugar.
- Substitute applesauce for the coconut oil for lower fat.
- Use gluten-free oats if you want a completely gluten-free dessert.
These options allow you to adjust this delicious treat based on your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry Almond Crisp is incredibly versatile! Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience, or try it alongside a dollop of whipped cream for a lighter take. It’s also a fantastic choice for holiday gatherings, picnics, or quiet family dinners. Just imagine enjoying this comforting dessert around a campfire with loved ones!
Common Mistakes
Even the most avid bakers can encounter hiccups! Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your Cherry Almond Crisp comes out just right:
Overbaking: Keep an eye on the oven! Overbaked crisp will dry out the filling and burn the topping.
Texture Issues: Too much arrowroot or cornstarch can make the filling gummy. Stick to the recommended amounts for perfect consistency.
Messes: To prevent sticky spills, make sure to use a adequately-sized baking dish and line it with parchment for easy cleanup.
Storing Tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare with this delightful dish), you can freeze portions! Allow the Cherry Almond Crisp to cool completely, then place it in airtight containers, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Reheat in the oven for 15-20 minutes when you’re ready to enjoy it again, and you’ll find it tastes just as delicious!
Conclusion
There’s something about a warm Cherry Almond Crisp that calls to the soul and beckons to be shared with someone special. Its delightful blend of flavors and textures combined with the nostalgia it evokes makes it a must-bake recipe. Gather your ingredients, set aside some time, and prepare to indulge in this mouthwatering dessert. You won’t regret it—bake it ASAP!
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh cherries work beautifully as long as they’re pitted and chopped. Adjust the sweetness based on their tartness!
2. How can I make this dish vegan?
Simply swap the maple syrup for a vegan-friendly sweetener and use coconut oil as your fat of choice.
3. Is it necessary to use almond flour?
While almond flour adds a delightful richness, you can substitute it with more rolled oats for a heartier topping.
4. Can I add nuts other than almonds?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your favorite nuts, like pecans or walnuts, which complement the flavors nicely.
5. How do I know when it’s done baking?
When the topping is golden-brown and the cherry filling is bubbling around the edges, it’s time to remove it from the oven.
Embrace the delightful flavors of this Cherry Almond Crisp, and you may just find it becoming a cherished staple in your dessert rotation!
Cherry Almond Crisp
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine frozen cherries, maple syrup, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and arrowroot powder. Stir gently until everything is well mixed.
- Pour the cherry mixture into a baking dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- In another bowl, combine rolled oats, finely chopped almonds, almond flour, salt, and melted coconut oil with almond extract. Mix until crumbly and spread over the cherry filling.
- Slide your creation into the oven and let it bake for about 30 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the cherries bubble beneath.
- Once baked, let the crisp cool for a few minutes. Serve warm.
