If you’re searching for a dessert that bursts with sweet-tart flavor and cozy, buttery crunch, this Cherry Crumble Recipe is absolutely the one to try. A luscious filling of fresh or frozen cherries melds perfectly with a golden, oat-studded crumble topping that bakes to crispy perfection, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. Whether it’s an everyday treat or a show-stopping finale for your next dinner party, this Cherry Crumble Recipe brings warmth and joy to the table with its simple, heartfelt goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large bowl filled with dark red cherries, some whole and some cut in half showing the deep red inside. Around the bowl, smaller clear glass bowls hold light beige oats, light brown sugar, golden yellow butter, thin pale almond slices, white flour, white sugar, white powdery baking powder, and small amounts of clear liquid ingredients. A whole yellow lemon sits next to the oats on a white marbled surface. The colors contrast nicely, with the cherries’ dark red standing out the most. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Cherry Crumble Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering that perfect mix of flavors and textures. From juicy cherries that provide vibrant color and natural sweetness to the rolled oats and flaked almonds that add a wholesome crunch to the topping, every component is essential.

7 cups fresh cherries (or frozen, pitted): The star of the dish, bringing juicy brightness and vibrant color.
¼ cup white granulated sugar: Balances the tartness of the cherries for a perfectly sweet filling.
3 teaspoons cornflour (US cornstarch): Thickens the cherry juices into a luscious, jam-like consistency.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a zesty brightness that elevates the fruit’s natural flavor.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Warms and deepens the overall taste with comforting notes.
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional): Adds a subtle nutty undertone that complements cherries beautifully.
115 g unsalted butter (coarsely grated and cold): Creates a flaky, tender texture in the crumble topping.
130 g plain flour (all-purpose flour): Forms the base of the crumbly topping for structure and bite.
66 g light brown sugar: Brings caramel-like sweetness and moisture to the crumble.
Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
85 g rolled oats: Adds a hearty chew and rustic texture to the topping.
25 g flaked almonds: Provides extra crunch and a delicate nutty flavor.

How to Make Cherry Crumble Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cherry Filling

Start by tossing the fresh or thawed frozen cherries with the sugar and cornstarch in a deep, 9-inch pie dish or oven-safe skillet. This mixture will thicken beautifully as it bakes, ensuring your filling isn’t watery but luxuriously saucy. Pour in the lemon juice, vanilla extract, and almond extract, then mix gently to distribute the flavors evenly. Set this aside while you get the crumble topping ready.

Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping

In a large mixing bowl, combine the coarsely grated, cold butter with the plain flour, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture breaks into coarse clumps. Don’t fret if you still see some small pieces of butter; they will create lovely pockets of richness while baking.

Step 3: Add Oats and Almonds

Stir in the rolled oats and flaked almonds, which provide the signature chewy and crunchy texture your crumble topping needs. This combo gives you that perfect balance of softness from the oats and a delicate crisp from the almonds that makes this Cherry Crumble Recipe so darn good.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Evenly scatter the crumble mixture over the cherry filling, making sure every juicy berry is generously topped. Bake in a preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes until the crumble has turned a beautiful golden brown and the edges are bubbling with juicy cherry goodness. The aroma filling your kitchen will be impossible to resist.

How to Serve Cherry Crumble Recipe

A round black skillet with a white speckled handle holds a dessert with two main layers visible: the bottom layer consists of dark red fruit pieces visible around the edges, and the top layer is a crumbly mixture made of light beige oat flakes and small almond slices, creating a coarse, uneven surface. The skillet is placed on a white marbled surface with a dark blue textured cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A warm cherry crumble is delightful on its own, but some simple garnishes take it to the next level. A dollop of freshly whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of silky crème anglaise adds creaminess that contrasts perfectly with the tart cherries and crunchy topping.

Side Dishes

Consider pairing your Cherry Crumble Recipe with a light salad of fresh greens and citrus vinaigrette if serving as part of a larger meal to cleanse the palate. For something cozy, a warm cup of spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee complements the dessert’s fruity and buttery notes beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve individual portions in ramekins topped with toasted almonds or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. If you’re hosting, layering the crumble with whipped mascarpone or Greek yogurt in clear glasses creates an elegant parfait version that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cherry Crumble keeps wonderfully covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making each spoonful even more satisfying. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep the topping crisp as long as possible.

Freezing

This Cherry Crumble Recipe freezes beautifully, so you can prepare it ahead of time and have a delicious dessert ready whenever the craving strikes. Cool the baked crumble completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring your frozen or refrigerated crumble back to life, reheat it gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until bubbling hot and the topping regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving for the best texture, as it can turn the topping soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cherries for this Cherry Crumble Recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to reduce excess moisture, so the filling doesn’t become too watery. Frozen cherries are a great year-round option.

Is almond extract essential in this recipe?

While optional, almond extract adds a lovely subtle nutty warmth that pairs amazingly with cherries. Feel free to omit if you’re not a fan or have allergies.

Can I make this crumble gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly but it will still be delicious.

How can I tell when the cherry crumble is done baking?

Look for a golden-brown topping with bubbling edges where the cherry juices peek through. The smell will be irresistible, and the crumble topping should be crisp to the touch.

What’s the best way to pit cherries quickly?

A cherry pitter tool makes the job quick and easy. If you don’t have one, carefully use a small knife or the end of a wooden spoon to push the pits out, but take your time to avoid bruising the fruit.

Final Thoughts

This Cherry Crumble Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. From the juicy, fragrant filling to the crunchy, buttery topping, it’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Treat yourself and your loved ones soon—you won’t regret it!

Cherry Crumble Recipe