Cherry Almond Crisp
There’s something undeniably comforting about pulling a warm, fruity dessert out of the oven that envelops your kitchen in sweet, nostalgic aromas. The Cherry Almond Crisp is a delightful interplay of tart cherries, crunchy almond toppings, and a hint of sweetness that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. Not only is this crisp a breeze to whip up, but it also brings back memories of childhood summers—picking cherries under the sun, laughing with loved ones, and indulging in simple pleasures. You can have this crave-worthy dish ready in no time, making it the perfect addition to any dinner or picnic, especially when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ready to dive into a bowl of bliss?
Imagine sitting on a sunny patio with your family, or cozily gathered around the dining table with friends, sharing a warm dish dripping with juicy cherries and topped with a crispy almond crunch. Can you almost taste the rich flavors dancing on your palate? What if you can transform a simple gathering into a celebration of sweet memories with just one dish?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to adore this Cherry Almond Crisp!
Easy Prep: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to serve in less than an hour.
Healthy Twist: Cherries are naturally low in calories and high in vitamins, making this a guilt-free indulgence.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dessert will appeal to everyone—kids, adults, and even your health-conscious friends.
Versatility: Enjoy it warm, at room temperature, with or without ice cream—the serving options are endless!
Ingredients
To create this delicious Cherry Almond Crisp, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:
4 cups Frozen Cherries: Their natural tartness is beautifully complemented by the crisp topping.
1/2 cup Maple Syrup: Adds a rich sweetness that enhances the flavors.
1 tablespoon Lemon Juice: Brightens the cherry mixture and balances the sweetness.
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: A flavor enhancer that adds depth to the dish.
2 tablespoons Arrowroot Powder or Cornstarch: Helps thicken the cherry filling for that perfect gooey texture.
1 cup Rolled Oats: Provides the base for the crunchy topping that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
1/2 cup Finely Chopped Almonds: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
1/2 cup Almond Flour: Contributes to a tender crisp texture.
1/4 teaspoon Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
1/4 cup Coconut Oil: Keeps the topping moist and gives it a subtle, tropical essence.
1 teaspoon Almond Extract: Elevates the dish with an aromatic twist that pairs beautifully with cherries.
Each ingredient is carefully chosen to create a symphony of flavors and textures that will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia.
Timing
Whipping up this Cherry Almond Crisp is a quick affair! In just about 10 minutes of prep time, you can have your dessert ready to be popped in the oven. With a baking time of approximately 30 minutes, you’ll be indulging in the delightful gooeyness and crispy crust in under an hour. It’s the perfect balance between fast and indulgent—a quick yet satisfying way to bring a piece of heaven to your table.
Step-by-Step
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C)—this sets the stage for a beautifully baked crisp.
In a large mixing bowl, combine frozen cherries, maple syrup, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and arrowroot powder. Stir gently until all the ingredients unite in delicious harmony.
Pour the cherry mixture into a baking dish—watch as the vibrant color brightens up your kitchen space!
In another bowl, combine rolled oats, finely chopped almonds, almond flour, salt, and melted coconut oil with almond extract. Mix until it becomes a crumbly mixture, bursting with tantalizing aromas.
Spread the crumbly topping over the cherry filling like a warm blanket that envelops all those juicy treasures beneath!
Bake for about 30 minutes until the topping turns golden brown and the cherries begin to bubble beneath. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells irresistible!
Let cool for a few minutes before serving warm—let your senses revel in the anticipation, creating that picture-perfect moment.
Nutritional Information
One serving of Cherry Almond Crisp (about 1/4 of the dish) contains approximately 250 calories. It’s an indulgent treat that brings joy without too much guilt. The combination of cherries and almonds also incites feelings of satisfaction, contributing to your overall well-being.
Healthier Alternatives
For those seeking healthier swaps, consider these substitution ideas:
Low-Sugar Option: Replace maple syrup with a sugar alternative like stevia to lower overall sugar content.
Dairy-Free: Ensure that all ingredients are dairy-free, especially if you enjoy this crisp with a scoop of ice cream.
Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats and almond flour for a gluten-free dessert that everyone can enjoy.
Creating a delicious Cherry Almond Crisp can be done in a way that aligns with your lifestyle, allowing you to indulge without stretching your dietary boundaries.
Serving Suggestions
Cherry Almond Crisp is versatile—enjoy it as a simple dessert during family dinners or chic gatherings. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting treat, or pair it with whipped cream for a light yet decadent finish. It also makes a fantastic sweet side for holiday gatherings, offering a refreshing twist that welcomes the season of togetherness. Can you already picture your friends and family reaching for seconds?
Common Mistakes
When making Cherry Almond Crisp, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:
Overbaking: Keep an eye on your crisp in the oven. A golden brown topping is ideal, while overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
Texture Issues: Too much moisture from the fruit can create a soggy crisp. Ensure that the arrowroot powder is appropriately mixed, and don’t skip the step of letting it cool.
Messy Prep: Use a large enough bowl for mixing! The last thing you need is the cherry mixture spilling over the sides.
With a little practice and awareness, you can create a flawless Cherry Almond Crisp that will impress everyone at your table.
Storing Tips
To store your delicious creation:
Freezing Portions: Once cooled, cut into squares and store individual portions in an airtight container. It freezes beautifully and can be kept for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions: To enjoy leftovers, simply reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You may even want to taunt your taste buds by serving it fresh out of the oven!
Tempted to bake it ASAP?
Get ready to experience bliss with each bite of this Cherry Almond Crisp. With its warm, gooey cherries peeking through a sweet, crunchy topping, you simply cannot resist. This dessert encapsulates joyful moments, informal gatherings, and the bright essence of summer days, all packed in one delicious dish.
Why wait? Gather your ingredients, turn on your oven, and whip up this indulgent, nostalgic treat that promises to leave you and your guests wanting more.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?
Yes! Fresh cherries can be used, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time slightly if they are not pitted.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cherry filling in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
What can I serve it with?
It pairs beautifully with a scoop of ice cream, whipped cream, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a touch of tartness.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes! It’s vegan-friendly as it doesn’t contain any animal products.
How do I know when it’s done?
The crisp is ready when the topping is golden brown and the cherries are bubbling nicely around the edges.
With all these details and tips, you’re well-equipped to create the most mouthwatering Cherry Almond Crisp! Now it’s time to get baking!
