Picture this: it’s a sunny weekend afternoon, and you’re staring at a bowl of cherries sitting on your counter, waiting to be transformed into something magical. That’s exactly how this recipe came to life!
Growing up, cherries were the ultimate summer treat. My family would pick them fresh from a local orchard, filling baskets to the brim (and sneaking a few juicy bites along the way). But by the end of the week, we always had way more cherries than we could possibly eat. That’s when this Healthy Cherry Crisp became our go-to solution—a dessert that’s cozy, nostalgic, and wonderfully simple.
Now, I love making it after a long workout or on a chill Sunday evening. It’s a dessert that brings all the comfort of a traditional crisp, but with healthier ingredients so you can enjoy it guilt-free. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about the way the warm cherries bubble up under that crunchy oat topping. Bonus: it makes your kitchen smell like a dream!
Whether you’ve got fresh cherries from the farmer’s market or a bag of frozen ones in the freezer, this recipe is your ticket to sweet, crunchy happiness. 😊
Healthy Cherry Crisp Dessert
6
servings10
minutes30
minutes210
kcal🥣 Ingredients
- For the Cherry Filling:
3 cups fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.1 tbsp maple syrup (optional for added sweetness)
1 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
Helps thicken the filling.1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract (optional but enhances cherry flavor!)
- For the Oat Topping:
1 cup rolled oats
Provides fiber and a satisfying crunch.1/2 cup almond flour
Keeps it gluten-free and adds a nutty flavor.1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Healthy fats and extra crunch.2 tbsp coconut oil (melted)
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1/2 tsp cinnamon
For a warm, aromatic touch.
🍒 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish with coconut oil or line with parchment paper. - Prepare the Cherry Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine cherries, maple syrup (if using), cornstarch, vanilla, and almond extract.
Mix until the cherries are evenly coated.
Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish. - Make the Oat Topping
In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, almond flour, chopped nuts, cinnamon, coconut oil, and honey/maple syrup.
Mix until the topping forms a crumbly texture. - Assemble the Crisp
Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the cherry filling.
Press down gently to ensure an even layer. - Bake the dish in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherries are bubbling.
- Cool and Serve
Remove the crisp from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes.
Serve warm on its own or with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of low-fat vanilla ice cream.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~210
- Protein: ~3.5g
- Carbohydrates: ~27g
- Fats: ~10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
🌟 Expert Tips for Success
- Fresh or Frozen Cherries: Both work well! If using frozen, let them thaw and drain excess liquid before mixing.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup based on the natural sweetness of your cherries.
- Make It Nut-Free: Swap almond flour for oat flour and omit nuts.
- Add More Fruits: Mix in blueberries, raspberries, or diced apples for a flavor twist.
🍽 Plating Suggestions
Serve in small bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a sprig of mint for an elegant presentation.
💬 Try It Out!
Did you love this Healthy Cherry Crisp? Save this recipe, share it with friends, or tag us in your creations! Whether it’s a family gathering or a solo treat, this dessert will quickly become a favorite. 🥧✨
