Cherry Crisp

Cherry Crisp Recipe: Delicious Dessert Made with Cherries, Oats, and Walnuts

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cherry Crisp is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet and tart cherries with a crunchy oat and walnut topping is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

History

Cherry Crisp is a classic American dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. It is believed to have originated in the Midwest, where cherries are abundant during the summer months. The recipe has been passed down through families and is a favorite at potlucks and family gatherings.

Ingredients

1 can (16 oz / 454 g) red sour pitted cherries
1.5 tbsp cornstarch
4 tsp sugar
0.25 tsp almond extract

Topping

0.5 cup quick-cooking rolled oats
2 tbsp chopped walnuts
1 tbsp melted margarine

How to prepare

Drain the cherries, reserving 0.75 cup of juice.
In a saucepan, combine a small amount of juice, cornstarch, and sugar.
Stir in the remaining juice.
Cook over moderate heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes clear.
Remove from heat.
Add the cherries and extract.
Spread the mixture in an 8-inch pan.

Topping

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Mix oats and walnuts in a small bowl.
Add margarine and mix well with a fork.
The mixture will be crumbly.
Sprinkle the topping over the cherries.
Bake for 20 minutes or until the topping is browned.
Serve warm or chilled.

Variations

You can add a splash of bourbon or rum to the cherry mixture for a boozy twist.
Try adding a handful of dried cranberries or raisins to the cherry mixture for added sweetness and texture.
Experiment with different nuts in the topping, such as pecans or almonds.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the cherries well before using them in the recipe to prevent the crisp from becoming too watery.

- You can use fresh cherries instead of canned cherries if they are in season. Simply pit and chop the cherries before adding them to the recipe.

- Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can also use honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener.

Serving Suggestions

Cherry Crisp is best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the Cherry Crisp at a high temperature ensures that the topping becomes crispy and golden brown while the cherries become soft and juicy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cornstarch, you can use flour as a thickening agent for the cherry mixture.

- You can use butter instead of margarine in the topping for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cherry mixture and topping ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake the crisp, simply assemble the dish and bake as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Cherry Crisp in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. You can also garnish each serving with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Pairing Recommendations

Cherry Crisp pairs well with a glass of red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or Merlot. You can also serve it with a cup of hot coffee or tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Cherry Crisp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the crisp in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cherry Crisp contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cherry Crisp contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cherry Crisp contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Cherry Crisp contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cherries are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (walnuts) and may not be suitable for those with nut allergies.

Summary

Cherry Crisp is a delicious dessert that is relatively low in calories and provides a good source of carbohydrates and healthy fats. However, it is important to enjoy this dessert in moderation due to its sugar content.

Summary

Cherry Crisp is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet and tart flavors of cherries with a crunchy oat and walnut topping. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for a truly indulgent treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was a warm summer day and I had been invited to a potluck at my friend Barbara's house. As I scanned the dessert table, my eyes landed on a beautiful dish of Cherry Crisp. The vibrant red cherries peeking out from under a golden brown, crispy topping beckoned me closer.

I quickly made my way over to Barbara and asked her for the recipe. She smiled and handed me a handwritten card with the instructions. "It's a family recipe that's been passed down for generations," she explained. I thanked her profusely and promised to make it for my own family soon.

As I read through the recipe, I realized that it was relatively simple and straightforward. The filling consisted of fresh cherries tossed with sugar, cornstarch, and a splash of lemon juice. The topping was a mixture of oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter, sprinkled generously over the fruit before baking.

I couldn't wait to try it out, so I headed to the market to pick up some cherries. The scent of ripe fruit filled the air as I selected the plumpest, juiciest cherries I could find. Back at home, I set to work pitting and halving the cherries, reveling in the deep red color staining my fingertips.

The aroma of baking cherries and buttery oat topping filled my kitchen as the Cherry Crisp bubbled away in the oven. I couldn't resist sneaking a taste before it was fully cooled, and I was immediately transported to a summer picnic in a sun-drenched orchard.

I served the Cherry Crisp that evening after dinner, topped with a dollop of vanilla ice cream. My family's eyes widened in delight as they took their first bite, the sweet, tart cherries mingling with the crunchy topping in perfect harmony. My husband declared it the best dessert I had ever made, and my children begged for seconds.

From that day on, Cherry Crisp became a staple in our household. I made it for every special occasion, from birthdays to holidays to Sunday dinners. Each time, I would tweak the recipe slightly, adding a touch of cinnamon or a handful of chopped nuts to make it my own.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, all of whom raved about its simple yet irresistible charm. I even entered it into a local baking competition and won first prize, much to my surprise and delight.

As I grew older, my love for cooking only deepened. I collected recipes from all corners of the world, from cookbooks to magazines to online forums. But no matter how many new dishes I tried, Cherry Crisp remained a constant favorite.

Now, as I sit here in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the comforting smells of cinnamon and vanilla, I can't help but feel grateful for the simple pleasures in life. The memories of that first Cherry Crisp, shared with loved ones on a warm summer evening, will always hold a special place in my heart.

And so, I continue to pass on this cherished recipe to the next generation, hoping that they too will find joy in the simple act of baking and sharing a delicious dessert with those they hold dear. For in the end, it's not just about the food itself, but the memories and traditions that we create around it that truly nourish the soul.