The Best Homemade Cherry Crumble

Introduction to Cherry Crumble

There’s something timeless and comforting about a warm, bubbling cherry crumble. This easy-to-make dessert captures the sweet-tart essence of cherries and wraps it in a buttery, crispy oat topping that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just trying something new for the weekend, this recipe is about to become a favorite in your kitchen.

What makes cherry crumble special is its simplicity. Unlike pies, which require a carefully rolled crust, crumbles offer a rustic charm with minimal effort. If you’re curious about how crumbles differ from other desserts, Britannica has a helpful breakdown on the history and definition of crumbles.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Cherry Crumble

• Quick prep time: No complicated techniques or chilling dough
• Flexible ingredients: Use fresh, frozen, or canned cherries
• Customizable topping: Add nuts, spices, or even coconut
• Great for all diets: Easily made vegan or gluten-free

Not to mention, cherries are packed with antioxidants and nutrients. If you want to understand their full health benefits, check out the USDA’s cherry nutrition data to see just how good they are for you.

This dessert can also accommodate special dietary needs. For those with gluten sensitivity, Celiac.org’s baking tips can help you make a safe and delicious alternative.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible cherry crumble:

For the Cherry Filling

• 4 cups pitted cherries (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (adjust depending on tartness)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Crumble Topping

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
• ¾ cup old-fashioned oats
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup cold butter, cubed (or vegan substitute)
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• Optional: ¼ cup sliced almonds or shredded coconut

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss cherries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla. Spread evenly in a greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
3. In another bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and almonds.
4. Cut in butter using a fork or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the cherry mixture.
6. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cherries are bubbly.
7. Let cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cherry Crumble

• Use sour cherries if you love a tart twist.
• Always taste your filling—some cherries are sweeter than others.
• Chill the crumble topping for 10 minutes before baking for extra crunch.
• Want to go lower sugar? Replace half the sugar with maple syrup or skip entirely if your cherries are sweet enough.

Nutritional Information

• Approx. 280–350 calories per serving (depending on ingredients)
• Great source of Vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants
• Can be made dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan with simple swaps

Popular Variations of Cherry Crumble

• Sour Cherry Crumble: Extra tangy and best served with whipped cream
• Almond Cherry Crumble: Add almond extract to filling and sliced almonds to topping
• Cherry Apple Crumble: Mix half cherries and half thin-sliced apples
• Cherry Crumble Bars: Press half the crumble into a pan, add filling, then top and bake

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Drizzle with whipped cream or a dash of cream liqueur
• Pair with coffee or sparkling wine for an elegant touch
• Enjoy chilled the next day for breakfast (we won’t judge!)

Storing and Reheating

• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat in oven at 300°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 30–60 seconds
• Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months

FAQs: Answering Common Cherry Crumble Questions

Can I use frozen cherries in cherry crumble?
Yes! Just thaw and drain them well before using to avoid a soggy base.

What’s the difference between cherry crisp and cherry crumble?
Crisps often contain nuts and sometimes less flour. Crumbles are more buttery and cakey.

Can you make cherry crumble gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats. Celiac.org has more tips.

Why is my crumble topping not crunchy?
You might be using too much butter or baking at too low a temperature. Try chilling the topping before baking.

How do I thicken cherry filling?
Cornstarch or arrowroot powder work well. Mix them with the sugar before combining with fruit.

What cherries are best for baking?
Tart cherries like Montmorency are ideal, but Bing cherries also work beautifully for a sweeter version.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this homemade cherry crumble is a must-try. It’s flexible, flavorful, and incredibly easy to whip up. Don’t be afraid to experiment with toppings or different fruits. The magic lies in how simple ingredients transform into a show-stopping dessert.

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