Cherry Pecan Crisp
This post is sponsored by American Pecan Council. As always, all opinions expressed here are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that help make Pumpkin ‘N Spice possible!
This easy Cherry Crisp is an irresistible summer dessert. Sweet cherries and a buttery, crunchy pecan streusel makes the best fruit dish that’s ready in no time!
You all know my feelings on crisps and cobblers…am I right? I have a major love for them.
In fact, I will take a fruit dessert over chocolate any day of the week. Yep, I said it. Fruit wins over chocolate every time.
Which is why crisps are pretty much on repeat come summertime. Fresh fruit, a crumbly, buttery topping…what more could you ask for?
And my latest (and greatest) easy cherry crisp definitely steals the spotlight. It has all of the requirements that I look for in a crisp, plus a unique pecan topping. How about that for a summer dessert?
Speaking of pecans, did you know that they are actually nutrient dense?
Don’t be fooled by that rich, buttery texture and sweet taste, friends. Pecans are among the highest in ‘good’ monounsaturated fats and provide plant protein, fiber, flavonoids and essential minerals, including copper, manganese and zinc.
Pecans are also very versatile, which is why I always have some around. It’s so easy to snack on some right out of the bag or use as part of a tasty trail mix. I also love adding them to my yogurt and salads. You can even use pecans in savory dishes, such as pasta, dips, and tacos. Oh, the possibilities!
Since it’s clear that I love pecans, it only seemed natural to jazz up one of my favorite desserts. And this easy dessert it definitely a show-stopper!
Cherry Pecan Crisp is an irresistibly easy summer dessert. Sweet cherries and a buttery, crunchy pecan streusel makes the best fruit dish that’s ready in no time!
And you know me, I’m all about the easy recipes around here and this cherry crisp recipe fits the bill. It’s bursting with cherries and the most delicious streusel made from pecans (my favorite!) and oats. It takes this crisp to a whole new level, and your tastebuds will thank you.
Ingredients in the Cherry Crisp
For this easy cherry crisp recipe, you’ll need just a handful of basic ingredients. Here’s what goes into this summer dessert:
- Cherries
- Pecan pieces (or halves)
- Cornstarch
- Lemon juice
- Vanilla extract
- Salt
- All-purpose flour
- Old-fashioned oats
- Light brown sugar
- Cinnamon and nutmeg
- Unsalted butter
Should I Use Fresh or Frozen Cherries?
You can make this cherry crisp with fresh cherries or with frozen. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them first.
How to Make Cherry Crisp
This easy cherry crisp will quickly become a favorite for the whole family. And since you can use fresh or frozen cherries, this dish is perfect to make year round. Once you bite into that luscious fruit filling and crumbly streusel, you’ll be making this over and over again!
- For the cherry filling: Toss the cherries, fresh pecan pieces, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice and vanilla together and then spread evenly into your dish or skillet.
- Time to make the topping! Combine some flour, old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, spices, and fresh pecans together.
- Then, using your hands or a pastry cutter, cut in some room temperature, unsalted butter until the topping resembles a doughy, coarse sand.
- Sprinkle the topping over the fruit mixture and then let the oven work its magic.
- Serve warm (fresh from the oven or microwaved) with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream. Or, top with additional pecans and a dollop of whipped cream.
How to Store Fruit Crisps
You can actually keep this summer fruit crisp out at room temperature for up to four days (it’s okay to do so since every element has been cooked). Make sure to cover the top of the baking dish with foil, though!
Can I Add Other Fruits?
Yes, definitely! I love to mix and match the fruits I use to make crisps, and this fresh cherry crisp pairs nicely with an array of berries and stone fruits. Think: blueberries, strawberries, peaches, and more!
Tips for Making Cherry Crisp
- You can make this fruit crisp in a baking dish or a cast iron skillet. Both work well, but if using a cast iron skillet there is no need to grease it first.
- If making the cherry crisp with frozen cherries, there’s no need to thaw them first. They’ll defrost quickly in the oven.
- Whatever type of cherry you use, be sure to pit them all before making the recipe.
Looking for More Cherry Desserts? I’ve Got You Covered!
- Cherry Pie Bars
- No-Churn Cherry Cheesecake Ice Cream
- Cherry Pie Bites
- Cherry Chocolate Chip Energy Bites
- Cherry Banana Pudding Smoothie
Cherry Pecan Crisp
Ingredients
Cherry Filling
- 4 cups cherries, , pitted (fresh or frozen)
- ¼ cup fresh pecan pieces , (or halves)
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Topping
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup old-fashioned oats
- ⅔ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ cup fresh pecans
- ½ cup unsalted butter, , room temperature and cut into cubes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375F. Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Alternatively, you can use a 9-inch cast iron skillet. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine cherries, fresh pecan pieces, and cornstarch. Stir in lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix to combine and then spread evenly onto bottom of dish or skillet. Set aside.
- To make the topping, in another medium bowl, combine flour, old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and pecans. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, cut in softened butter until mixture resembles a doughy coarse sand.
- Sprinkle mixture evenly over fruit filling.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until fruit is tender and topping is golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
