Cherry Almond Crisp Delight

This almond cherry crisp recipe is my go-to dessert when fresh cherries aren't in season but I'm craving that perfect blend of tart and sweet flavors. The combination of frozen cherries with almond extract creates an irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes, and the crispy oat topping provides the perfect contrast to the juicy fruit beneath.

I first made this during a winter dinner party when I needed a dessert that would work for guests with different dietary needs. The empty dish at the end of the night told me everything I needed to know, and it's been a staple in my recipe collection ever since.

Ingredients

Cherry Base

• Frozen cherries: choose dark sweet cherries for a richer flavor but tart cherries work beautifully too
• Maple syrup: adds natural sweetness with complex notes that refined sugar lacks
• Lemon juice: the acidity brightens the cherry flavor and balances the sweetness
• Vanilla extract: enhances the fruity notes without overwhelming
• Arrowroot powder: creates the perfect consistency for the filling without clouding the vibrant color

Crisp Topping

• Rolled oats: provides hearty texture and nutty flavor
• Sliced almonds: finely chopped adds protein and complements the cherry flavor
• Almond flour: creates a tender crumb while keeping the recipe gluten free
• Salt: a small amount enhances all the other flavors
• Maple syrup: binds the topping while adding caramel notes
• Coconut oil: gives richness and helps achieve the perfect golden crisp
• Almond extract: amplifies the nutty flavor and pairs perfectly with cherries

How To Make Cherry Almond Crisp

Prepare the oven:

Set your oven to 350°F and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the ingredients. This ensures even baking from the moment the crisp goes in.

Mix the cherry filling:

Combine frozen cherries with maple syrup lemon juice and vanilla in a large bowl. Toss gently to coat all cherries evenly without crushing them. Sprinkle arrowroot powder over the mixture and fold it in until no white streaks remain. The arrowroot will dissolve fully during baking creating the perfect consistency.

Prepare the baking dish:

Transfer the cherry mixture to your baking dish spreading it in an even layer. I prefer a 9×9 pan or a 10.25 inch cast iron skillet which allows for the perfect ratio of fruit to topping.

Create the crisp topping:

In a separate bowl combine the dry ingredients oats almonds almond flour and salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute the salt evenly. Pour in the wet ingredients maple syrup melted coconut oil and almond extract. Stir until the mixture becomes cohesive and slightly clumpy.

Assemble the crisp:

Using your fingers crumble the topping over the cherry mixture ensuring most of the fruit is covered but allowing a few spots of cherry to peek through. This creates visual appeal and allows steam to escape.

Bake to perfection:

Place the dish in the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. You'll know it's done when the topping turns a deep golden brown and the cherry filling bubbles around the edges. For extra crispness broil for the final 2 minutes but watch carefully to prevent burning.

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The almond extract is truly the secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered its transformative power accidentally when I ran out of vanilla one day. The way it enhances the cherry flavor creates an almost magical flavor combination that reminds me of the cherry trees my grandmother had in her backyard. Every summer we'd pick buckets of cherries together and this crisp brings those memories flooding back.

Serving Suggestions

This cherry almond crisp is absolutely divine served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream that slowly melts into the fruit. For a dairy free option coconut ice cream provides a complementary flavor profile. If serving for brunch a dollop of thick Greek yogurt adds a tangy contrast that balances the sweetness perfectly. I often prepare this the night before a gathering and gently rewarm individual portions before serving.

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Storage Tips

This crisp keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 5 days covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. The topping will soften slightly but the flavor actually improves as the almond notes deepen. To reheat individual servings microwave for 30 seconds or place in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes until warmed through. You can also freeze the unbaked crisp for up to 3 months add an extra 15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.

Seasonal Variations

While frozen cherries make this a year round treat in summer I love using fresh cherries instead. When using fresh cherries increase the arrowroot to 1.5 tablespoons as fresh fruit releases more liquid. In fall try adding a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the topping for a warm spiced note. During winter holidays a tablespoon of orange zest in the filling adds a festive touch that complements the almond and cherry flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh cherries. Just ensure they are pitted, and the cooking time should remain the same.

→ What can I use instead of almond flour?

You can substitute almond flour with oat flour or a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, though the flavor will vary slightly.

→ How do I make this crisp nut-free?

Replace the chopped almonds with additional oats and use sunflower or pumpkin seed butter in place of almond extract for a nut-free variation.

→ Can I use a different sweetener in place of maple syrup?

Absolutely! Agave syrup or honey (if you're not vegan) can be used as alternatives, though they may slightly change the flavor profile.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store the crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I freeze this cherry almond crisp?

Yes, you can freeze the crisp after baking. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for a fresh-out-of-the-oven texture.

→ What type of vanilla ice cream pairs best?

Vanilla bean or a dairy-free vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm cherry almond crisp for contrasting flavors and textures.