Easy Cherry Crisp recipe with frozen cherries and a crunchy oat, brown sugar, and almond topping. Quick and simple dessert for family dinners, brunch, or special occasions. Homemade cherry crumble that is both fruity and golden-brown, perfect for a cozy treat. Simple fruit dessert recipe that’s easy to make and full of flavor.

Ingredients

For the filling:
- 36 ounces frozen dark cherries, thawed (3 x 12-ounce bags, no sugar added)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
For the topping:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup old-fashioned oats
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup sliced almonds, divided
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch slices

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine the thawed cherries, lemon juice, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and ¼ cup flour. Mix gently until the cherries are evenly coated. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
In a medium bowl, mix the remaining 1 ¼ cups flour, oats, brown sugar, ¼ cup sliced almonds, and salt. Cut in the butter using a pastry blender or fork until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
Evenly sprinkle the topping over the cherry mixture. Finish with the remaining ¼ cup sliced almonds on top.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling. Let cool slightly before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Cherry Crisp is a perfect combination of tart cherries and a buttery, crunchy topping. It’s simple to make, doesn’t require any complicated techniques, and is ideal for dessert any time of year. The almonds add a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the juicy cherries.

Tips

Use thawed cherries to avoid excess liquid in the crisp.
For an extra golden topping, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking—watch carefully to prevent burning.
Let the crisp cool slightly before serving to allow the juices to thicken.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap cherries for blueberries, raspberries, or a mixed berry combination.
Use pecans or walnuts instead of almonds for a different flavor.
For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
For a vegan option, replace butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the crisp up to the point before baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready.

Q: Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely! Use pitted fresh cherries and increase sugar slightly if they are tart.

Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Serving

Serve Easy Cherry Crisp warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Suggestions

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the topping for extra warmth and flavor.
Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy dessert experience.
Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or casual gatherings—you’ll always get compliments!