Why You’ll Love This Cherry Crumble Recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and delicious, you’ll love this cherry crumble recipe. The sweet, tart cherries blend perfectly with the crunchy topping, creating a delightful contrast in every bite.
It’s simple to make, yet feels indulgent—perfect for any occasion. I adore how the aroma fills my kitchen as it bakes, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste before serving.
Plus, it’s versatile! You can enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream.
Trust me, this cherry crumble will quickly become a favorite!
Ingredients of Cherry Crumble
When it comes to making a cherry crumble, gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving that perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors. Trust me, you’ll want to have everything ready before you start baking. The good news? This recipe is relatively straightforward, and most of the ingredients are pantry staples.
So, let’s explore what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dessert.
Here’s a handy list of ingredients for the cherry crumble:
- 3 cups sour pitted cherries, drained
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon quick-cooking tapioca
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pinch ground cloves
- 1 pinch ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup butter
Now, let’s talk about a few considerations regarding these ingredients. First off, if you can’t find sour cherries, don’t fret. You can use sweet cherries, but just keep in mind that you might want to adjust the sugar since they’re naturally sweeter.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not throw in some other fruits? A mix of berries or even apples can add a unique twist to your crumble.
Also, if you’re nut-free, you can totally leave out the pecans or swap them for sunflower seeds. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility; it’s like a canvas for you to create your own masterpiece.
How to Make Cherry Crumble
Alright, let’s plunge into making that delicious cherry crumble! You’ve got your ingredients all lined up, and trust me, this is where the magic happens. Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. You want it nice and hot, ready to transform those simple ingredients into a warm, bubbly dessert.
In an 8-inch square cake pan, toss together the 3 cups of sour pitted cherries with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of quick-cooking tapioca. It’s like a fruity party in there, and the tapioca will help thicken up the cherry juices as they cook, creating that luscious filling we all crave. Once that’s mixed, set it aside.
Now, grab a bowl and stir together 1 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of chopped pecans, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and those lovely spices—just a pinch of ground cloves and nutmeg. This mix is the crumbly topping that’ll add a delightful crunch to your dessert.
Now, here comes the fun part. With a pastry blender, cut in 1/2 cup of butter into the oat mixture until it becomes all crumbly. It might get a little messy, and you may end up with butter on your hands (don’t worry, it’s all part of the process).
Once it’s crumbly, sprinkle that mixture generously over the cherries. It’s like putting a cozy blanket on a bed of fruit. Now, pop that pan into your preheated oven and let it bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden and those cherries are bubbling away, releasing all their sweet goodness.
The aroma will fill your kitchen, and you might find it hard to resist sneaking a taste before it’s even done. Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool just a bit (if you can resist), and serve it warm. Trust me, it’s like a hug in dessert form.
Cherry Crumble Substitutions & Variations
While the classic cherry crumble is undeniably delicious, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate that can elevate your dessert experience.
For instance, if you want a different fruit flavor, try using blueberries or peaches instead of cherries. You can also swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a unique crunch.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using whole wheat flour and coconut oil. Adding spices like cinnamon or ginger can bring an extra warmth to the dish.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combination that suits your taste buds!
What to Serve with Cherry Crumble
Have you ever wondered what pairs perfectly with a warm cherry crumble?
Personally, I love serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess balances the tartness of the cherries beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a dollop of whipped cream or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra treat.
For a cozy twist, a side of warm custard can elevate your dessert experience. I also enjoy pairing my crumble with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea, which complements the sweetness perfectly.
Trust me, these combinations will make your cherry crumble unforgettable!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your cherry crumble turns out perfectly, I recommend using fresh, in-season cherries whenever possible, as they provide the best flavor.
If you can’t find fresh cherries, frozen ones work too; just thaw and drain them well.
Don’t skip the tapioca—it’s key for thickening the filling!
For added crunch, feel free to substitute or mix in other nuts like walnuts or almonds.
Finally, let the crumble cool slightly before serving; it allows the juices to thicken.
Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat!
Happy baking!