Cherry Almond Crisp Recipe

Cherries: Fresh, pitted cherries provide the sweet and tart base for the filling.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the cherry filling.

Cornstarch: Thickens the cherry filling to achieve the right consistency.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cherries.

Rolled oats: Forms the base of the crisp topping, adding texture.

Sliced almonds: Adds a nutty flavor and crunch to the topping.

Brown sugar: Sweetens the crisp topping and adds a hint of molasses flavor.

Flour: Helps to bind the topping ingredients together.

Butter: Melts into the topping, creating a rich, golden crust.

When preparing the cherries, make sure they are evenly pitted to avoid any unpleasant surprises while eating. To enhance the flavor, consider macerating the cherries with the sugar for about 30 minutes before combining them with the cornstarch and vanilla extract. This will allow the cherries to release their juices, creating a more flavorful and cohesive filling. Additionally, when mixing the oats, almonds, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter, ensure the mixture is well combined and crumbly for an even, crunchy topping.

• cherries - Substitute with blueberries: Blueberries offer a similar tartness and juiciness, making them a good alternative to cherries.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and can add a slight floral note to the dish.

• cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a great thickening agent and works similarly to cornstarch.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract complements the almond flavor in the crisp and adds a unique twist.

• rolled oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes offer a similar texture and are a good gluten-free option.

• sliced almonds - Substitute with chopped pecans: Chopped pecans provide a similar crunch and a slightly different but complementary nutty flavor.

• brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar sweetness and adds a slight caramel flavor.

• flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour is a gluten-free option that also enhances the almond flavor in the crisp.

• butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and adds a subtle coconut flavor.

• Allow the cherry almond crisp to cool completely after baking. This ensures that the topping sets properly and doesn't become soggy when stored.
• Transfer the crisp to an airtight container. If you prefer, you can leave it in the baking dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store the crisp in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cool temperature helps maintain the freshness of the cherries and the crunchiness of the almond topping.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the cherry almond crisp. Wrap the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness. The crisp can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the crisp in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process helps retain the texture and flavor of the dessert.
• Reheat the crisp in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This will help revive the crispiness of the topping.
• Serve the reheated cherry almond crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cherry almond crisp in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until it is heated through and the topping is crispy again.

• For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place a portion of the cherry almond crisp in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it heats evenly. Be cautious as the filling can get very hot.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the cherry almond crisp in the air fryer basket, ensuring it is in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking frequently to avoid burning the topping.

• On the stovetop, use a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the cherry almond crisp and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating without burning the bottom.

• Oven: Used to bake the cherry almond crisp at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Mixing bowl: Needed to combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract.

• Baking dish: The vessel where the cherry mixture and topping are layered and baked.

• Mixing bowl: Another bowl required to mix the oats, almonds, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the ingredients like cherries, sugar, oats, and flour.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities such as cornstarch and vanilla extract.

• Spatula: Handy for mixing the ingredients thoroughly and scraping the bowls clean.

• Knife: Useful for pitting the cherries if they are not pre-pitted.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for pitting and cutting the cherries.

• Oven mitts: Important for safely handling the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

• Cooling rack: Allows the baked crisp to cool slightly before serving.

Prepare the filling in advance: Mix the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract the night before and store in the fridge.

Use a food processor: Quickly combine oats, almonds, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter by pulsing in a food processor.

Pre-measure ingredients: Have all your ingredients measured and ready to go before you start.

Opt for frozen cherries: Save time on pitting by using frozen cherries that are already pitted.

Line the baking dish: Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy cleanup.