The Ultimate Cherry Crumble Recipe: A Sweet Treat for All
This isn't just any cherry crumble recipe; it's the recipe you'll come back to again and again. We've perfected the balance of sweet cherries, buttery crumble topping, and a hint of spice to create a dessert that's both comforting and delicious. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow guide!
Ingredients:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous baking session.
For the Cherry Filling:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries (If using frozen, ensure they're thawed and drained)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
Instructions:
Preparing the Cherry Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your crumble bakes perfectly.
- Combine the cherries, sugar, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a large bowl. Gently toss to coat the cherries evenly. This step is crucial for a flavorful filling.
- Pour the cherry mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. A well-greased dish prevents sticking and ensures easy serving.
Making the Crumble Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients first ensures even distribution of flavors.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips. Work quickly to prevent the butter from melting. The goal is to create a coarse, crumbly mixture. Cold butter is key for a flaky crumble.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the cherry filling. Don't be shy with the topping!
Baking the Cherry Crumble:
- Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Baking time may vary depending on your oven.
- Let the crumble cool slightly before serving. This allows the filling to set and prevents burns.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.
- A dollop of custard or crème fraîche adds another layer of deliciousness.
- Enjoy it on its own for a simpler, yet equally satisfying treat.
Tips for the Perfect Cherry Crumble:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste.
- Don't overmix the crumble topping: Overmixing will result in a tough crumble.
- Adjust the sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a less sweet crumble, reduce the sugar in both the filling and topping.
- Feel free to experiment with different spices: A dash of cardamom or allspice can add a unique flavor profile.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the crumble ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
FAQs about Cherry Crumble
Q: Can I use frozen cherries? A: Absolutely! Just make sure they are thawed and drained before adding them to the filling.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftover crumble in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Q: Can I freeze cherry crumble? A: Yes, you can freeze the baked crumble for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing.
This recipe provides a delicious and easy-to-follow guide to creating a memorable cherry crumble. Enjoy the process and the delicious results! Don't forget to share your culinary creations with us!
