As the sun set, it lit up the kitchen with a warm glow. The smell of baked cherries and buttery crumble filled the air. This cherry crumble recipe is a family favorite. It’s a dessert that satisfies our sweet tooth and brings us together.
This cherry crumble is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re having a backyard party, a cozy night in, or just want something delicious. It’s a mix of sweet and tart, with a topping that’s irresistible.
Why Cherry Crumble Is the Perfect Summer Dessert
When the warm summer sun calls, a homemade cherry crumble is the perfect treat. This classic fruit dessert captures the season’s vibrant flavors. It also makes the most of fresh cherries available during summer.
Health Benefits of Cherries
Cherries are not just tasty but also super nutritious. They are full of antioxidants, vitamins, and nutrients. These can help reduce inflammation and improve sleep, making cherry crumble a guilt-free summer delight.
Seasonal Availability and Selection
Cherries are at their best from May to August, with the peak in summer. Choose plump, firm cherries with a deep color. You can also use frozen dark sweet cherries, available in 12-ounce bags, for a convenient option all year.
Versatility in Serving
Cherry crumble is great for many occasions. It’s perfect for backyard barbecues, potlucks, or family dinners. Serve it warm with dairy-free vanilla ice cream for a rich treat, or chilled for a cool dessert. The ways to enjoy it are endless.
Cherry crumble is the ideal summer dessert recipes . It’s available seasonally, healthy, and versatile. It’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and celebrating the season’s bounty.
Essential Ingredients for Cherry Crumble
Creating the perfect cherry crumble involves two main parts: the cherry filling and the crumble topping. Let’s look at the key ingredients that make this dessert stand out.
1. Cherry Filling Components
The cherries are the main attraction. Choose tart cherries for a sweet and tangy filling. You’ll also need sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract to enhance the cherry flavor.
- Tart cherry pie filling (canned or homemade)
- Granulated or demerara sugar
- Cornstarch to thicken the filling
- Fresh lemon juice
- Vanilla extract
2. Crumble Topping Ingredients
The crumble topping makes this dessert special. It adds a crunchy texture to the soft filling. You’ll need flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cold butter for the topping.
- All-purpose flour
- Old-fashioned rolled oats
- Light brown sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Salt
- Cold unsalted butter
The right mix of filling and topping is key for a great fruit crisp recipes and baked sweets. With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious cherry crumble.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make a delicious cherry crumble, you’ll need some key baking essentials and kitchen tools. A 2-quart baking dish or a 9-inch square or round pan is crucial. It’s where the fruit and crumble topping will go.
You’ll also need several mixing bowls to mix the recipe’s parts. A pastry cutter or your fingers will help mix the crumble topping. Make sure to use measuring cups and spoons for the right amounts. A zester is handy if you want to add lemon zest to the cherries.
Remember to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the ideal temperature for baking a tasty cherry crumble.
- 2-quart baking dish or 9-inch square/round baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Pastry cutter or fingers
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Zester (optional)
- Preheated oven at 375°F (190°C)
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making the perfect homemade cherry crumble is a fun journey. Let’s go through each step to make your dessert a hit!
1. Preparing the Cherry Filling
Start by mixing 5 cups of fresh, pitted cherries in a big bowl. Add 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until the cherries are well coated. Then, set it aside.
2. Making the Perfect Crumble Topping
In another bowl, mix 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut in 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter. Keep mixing until it looks like coarse crumbs.
3. Assembly Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch baking dish and put the cherry filling in it, spreading it out. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the cherries, making sure it’s even. You can also add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans for extra crunch.
Bake the dessert at 400°F for 20 minutes. Then, lower the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 30-40 minutes more. It’s done when the topping is golden and the filling is bubbly. Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before you serve it.
Baking Tips and Techniques
Getting the perfect cherry crumble is all about the details. To make your homemade cherry crumble a hit, follow these key baking tips and techniques:
- Bake the cherry crumble at 375°F (190°C) for 45-60 minutes. This ensures the filling is bubbly and the topping golden.
- For a great crumble texture, use cold butter. It makes the topping tender and biscuit-like, perfect with the juicy cherries.
- If the top browns too fast, cover it with foil. This prevents burning and lets the filling cook fully.
- Let the crumble cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps the filling set, making the dessert better textured and less messy.
By using these baking tips, you’ll make a fruit crumble that looks and tastes amazing. Serve it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a treat everyone will enjoy.
Recipe Variations and Adaptations
This cherry crumble recipe is incredibly versatile. It can be tailored to fit various dietary needs or to try new tastes. Let’s explore the many ways you can adapt this dish.
1. Gluten-Free Options
For those who must avoid gluten, this recipe can be easily made gluten-free. Just swap the all-purpose flour in the topping with oat flour or a gluten-free flour blend. This change lets everyone enjoy the dessert’s delicious flavors.
2. Vegan Modifications
To make this recipe vegan, replace the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. You can also adjust the sugar to your liking. Try mixing cherries with other berries for a unique taste.
| Dietary Adaptation | Ingredient Substitution |
|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Replace all-purpose flour with oat flour or gluten-free flour blend |
| Vegan | Substitute butter with vegan butter or coconut oil |
This recipe’s versatility shines through in its dietary adaptations and vegan dessert options. With these simple swaps, you can make it enjoyable for everyone. Everyone can then savor the cherry crumble’s delightful flavors.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Enjoying homemade cherry crumble is just the start. Proper storage and reheating keep the flavors alive. Follow these tips to keep your crumble fresh and tasty, whether it’s leftovers or making ahead.
1. Refrigerating Leftovers
Keep leftover cherry crumble in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps the flavors and texture from getting lost.
2. Reheating Suggestions
- Warm individual servings in the microwave for 30-60 seconds until hot.
- To reheat the whole dish, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the crumble in the oven for about 15 minutes. It should be warm and the topping crisp again.
3. Freezing for Later
Freeze the cherry crumble for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating as instructed.
By following these dessert storage and leftovers tips, you can enjoy your homemade cherry crumble long after it’s baked. Have this sweet treat ready whenever you want it.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Make your homemade cherry crumble even better with different toppings and drinks. This dessert is great with the right additions.
1. Complementary Toppings
- Scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic, indulgent combination
- Dollop of freshly whipped cream to add a light, airy touch
- Almond-flavored ice cream for a delightful twist on the classic
- Tangy Greek yogurt to balance the sweetness of the crumble
2. Beverage Pairings
- Pair with a rich, aromatic coffee or a soothing herbal tea for a comforting dessert experience
- Serve alongside a glass of fruity, dessert-style wine like Port for a sophisticated pairing
- Enjoy the crumble with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade for a summery touch
Choose a topping or drink that lets the cherry crumble’s flavors stand out. Try different combinations to find your favorite!
| Topping | Beverage |
|---|---|
| Vanilla ice cream | Coffee |
| Whipped cream | Tea |
| Almond ice cream | Port wine |
| Greek yogurt | Iced tea |
With these dessert pairings and serving ideas, your homemade cherry crumble will be even more special.
Conclusion
Cherry crumble is a classic American dessert that never goes out of style. It’s loved by all ages for its simplicity and delicious taste. It’s perfect for cozy family gatherings or impressing guests with a tasty, seasonal treat.
This recipe works with fresh or canned cherries and can be made for different diets. The mix of juicy cherries and a crunchy topping is a hit. It offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Enjoying cherry crumble is like experiencing summer’s essence. The fresh cherry flavors are a treat. So, make this dessert a favorite in your home. It will delight your family and satisfy your sweet tooth every season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in cherry crumble?
Cherry crumble has cherry pie filling, sugar, and cornstarch. It also includes lemon juice and vanilla extract. For the topping, you need flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cold butter.
How long does it take to make cherry crumble?
Making cherry crumble takes about 40-60 minutes. It’s quick and easy to prepare and bake.
What are the health benefits of cherries?
Cherries are full of antioxidants and vitamin C. This makes cherry crumble a relatively healthy dessert.
How versatile is cherry crumble?
Cherry crumble is versatile. It’s great warm or cold. It’s perfect for potlucks, BBQs, and parties.
Can the recipe be adapted for dietary restrictions?
Yes, you can make cherry crumble vegan and gluten-free. It’s easy to adapt for different diets.
What tools and equipment are needed to make cherry crumble?
You’ll need a 2-quart baking dish or a 9-inch square pan. Also, mixing bowls, a pastry cutter, and measuring cups and spoons. A zester is helpful too.
How do you properly assemble and bake the cherry crumble?
First, mix the cherry filling ingredients. Then, mix the topping and spread it over the filling. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45-60 minutes. It’s done when the filling bubbles and the topping is golden.
How do you store and reheat leftover cherry crumble?
Store leftover cherry crumble in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months and thaw before reheating.
What are some recommended serving suggestions and pairings for cherry crumble?
Serve cherry crumble warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. It’s also good with almond-flavored ice cream, Greek yogurt, coffee, tea, or Port wine. For a summer treat, try it with iced tea or lemonade.