Cherry Almond Maple Crisp Delight

Featured in: Sweet treats for any occasion

Bursting with juicy cherries and fragrant almond, this cherry almond maple crisp is a comforting treat with a tender, golden oat topping. Almond flour and sliced almonds add richness and crunch, while maple syrup brings natural sweetness throughout. The filling thickens beautifully thanks to a splash of arrowroot, and the whole dessert is both vegan and gluten-free. Serve this warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect finish. Easy to prepare, this crisp is as wholesome as it is satisfying, making it ideal for gatherings or a simple indulgence at home.

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Updated on Tue, 03 Jun 2025 00:35:52 GMT
A bowl of cherry almond crisp. Pin it
A bowl of cherry almond crisp. | myhomemaderecipe.com

This cherry almond crisp is my answer to every fruit dessert craving. Juicy frozen cherries bubble beneath a golden almond oat topping, and everything comes together with a hint of maple for natural sweetness. I designed this recipe to be both vegan and gluten-free, so it truly is a treat everyone can enjoy straight from the oven or with a scoop of your favorite vanilla ice cream.

I first whipped this up when I found a bag of frozen cherries buried in my freezer. It became an instant favorite that my friends ask for every get-together and it always disappears fast.

  • Frozen cherries: Heaping cups ensure plenty of fruit per serving and using frozen makes this recipe possible year round Seek out dark sweet cherries for best flavor
  • Maple syrup: Used both in the base and topping for rich sweetness without refined sugar Choose pure maple syrup for depth and a hint of caramel
  • Lemon juice: Adds brightness and brings out the cherries’ natural tang Freshly squeezed is best for vibrant flavor
  • Vanilla: Adds warmth and enhances the fruit Choose real vanilla extract for purest taste
  • Arrowroot powder or cornstarch: Helps thicken the cherry juices for a more cohesive filling Go for organic if possible
  • Rolled oats: Give the crisp topping unbeatable nutty crunch Use gluten free oats if needed
  • Finely chopped sliced almonds: Bring a buttery crunch and almond flavor Look for ones that are unsalted and fresh
  • Almond flour: Makes the topping extra tender and flavorful Fresh almond flour gives a sweeter taste
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out all flavors
  • Coconut oil: binds everything together and makes for a crisp topping Unrefined coconut oil gives a hint of coconut flavor if you like
  • Almond extract: Intensifies the almond notes for a bakery-worthy crisp Look for pure almond extract for best results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Cherry Filling:
In a large mixing bowl combine frozen cherries maple syrup lemon juice and vanilla Toss until the cherries are well coated and glossy Sprinkle the arrowroot powder over the cherries and toss again until everything looks evenly distributed This step ensures the filling thickens perfectly in the oven
Assemble the Baking Dish:
Transfer the prepared cherry mixture to a baking dish A nine-inch square pan or a ten inch cast iron skillet both work well Spread into an even layer so every serving gets plenty of fruit
Make the Crisp Topping:
In a second large bowl stir together rolled oats finely chopped sliced almonds almond flour and salt Mix until everything looks evenly combined
Combine and Flavor the Topping:
Pour in maple syrup melted coconut oil and almond extract Stir with a fork until the mixture becomes crumbly and most oats are coated Only mix until just combined for a light crisp finish
Top the Cherries:
Sprinkle the crisp topping evenly over the cherry layer Try to cover as much of the cherries as possible so you have that satisfying golden crust Some cherries peeking through add to the rustic look
Bake It:
Place your dish in a preheated 350 degree oven Bake for fifty five to sixty minutes or until the top looks golden brown and the cherry filling bubbles up around the edges Optionally you can broil for the last couple of minutes watching closely to get extra crunch
Cool and Serve:
Let the crisp cool for at least fifteen minutes before scooping This helps the filling set and makes serving easier Top with vanilla ice cream or non dairy whip for an indulgent treat
A bowl of cherry almond crisp. Pin it
A bowl of cherry almond crisp. | myhomemaderecipe.com

One of my favorite moments is watching the topping turn golden through the oven door The aroma of almond and cherry always calls everyone to the kitchen I love adding extra almond extract because it makes the whole house smell like a bakery and takes me right back to my childhood

Storage Tips

This crisp stores perfectly in the fridge covered with foil or a tight lid for up to three days The topping may soften slightly but reheating at three hundred fifty degrees for ten minutes brings back the crunch If you want to freeze it let the crisp cool completely then wrap well and freeze for up to three months You can reheat from frozen though it is even better if you thaw overnight in the fridge

Ingredient Substitutions

No almond flour Use coconut flour or extra oats instead For nut allergies try pumpkin seeds or sunflower seed flour in the topping If you are out of maple syrup agave or honey work well if you are not vegan Fresh cherries can be used in season just pit and slice If you want more tartness add half a cup of cranberries

Serving Suggestions

This crisp is best right from the oven topped with a scoop of dairy free vanilla ice cream For brunch try serving it over coconut yogurt or alongside a handful of fresh berries It also pairs beautifully with whipped coconut cream and a dash of cinnamon For a special touch drizzle with more maple syrup just before serving

Cultural and Historical Context

Fruit crisps have their roots in early American baking when home cooks used seasonal fruit and pantry staples to craft comforting desserts Traditionally crisps and crumbles were a way to stretch fruit over more servings and use up leftover grains and nuts The almond cherry combination gives this version a flavor profile reminiscent of European patisserie

A bowl of cherry almond crisp with a spoon in it. Pin it
A bowl of cherry almond crisp with a spoon in it. | myhomemaderecipe.com

I have made this recipe dozens of times for potlucks and it is always the first dish to empty The combination of tart cherries and nutty topping is irresistible whether fresh from the oven or cold from the fridge

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh pitted cherries work well. Adjust the arrowroot amount if fresh cherries are especially juicy.

→ Is arrowroot powder necessary?

Arrowroot thickens the filling, but you can omit it for a saucier texture. Cornstarch is a suitable alternative.

→ How do I achieve an extra crisp topping?

For extra crunch, broil the crisp for a few minutes after baking. Watch closely to prevent burning.

→ Can I make this nut-free?

Substitute sunflower seeds for almonds and use oat flour instead of almond flour for a nut-free version.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat before serving.

Cherry Almond Maple Crisp

Juicy cherries, almonds, and maple syrup form a warm, golden crisp everyone can enjoy. Vegan and gluten-free.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
45 Minutes
Total Time
55 Minutes
By: Zaho

Category: Desserts

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Contemporary American

Yield: 8 Servings (One 23x23 cm tray or 26 cm skillet)

Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Cherry Base

01 980 grams frozen cherries
02 60 millilitres maple syrup
03 15 millilitres lemon juice
04 5 millilitres vanilla extract
05 12 grams arrowroot powder or cornstarch (optional but recommended)

→ Crisp Topping

06 150 grams rolled oats
07 100 grams finely chopped sliced almonds
08 150 grams almond flour
09 1 gram salt
10 120 millilitres maple syrup
11 120 millilitres melted coconut oil
12 5 millilitres almond extract

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) to ensure an even bake.

Step 02

In a large bowl, mix together the frozen cherries, maple syrup, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well coated. Add the arrowroot powder or cornstarch and toss to combine thoroughly.

Step 03

Pour the cherry mixture into a 23x23 cm baking dish or a 26 cm cast iron skillet, spreading it evenly.

Step 04

In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped almonds, almond flour, and salt. Stir in the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and almond extract, mixing until the topping forms a cohesive, crumbly texture.

Step 05

Scatter the crisp topping evenly over the cherry base, covering most but not all of the cherries for a rustic finish.

Step 06

Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling at the edges. If desired, broil for 2–3 minutes for added crispness at the end of baking.

Step 07

Allow the crisp to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally accompanied by vanilla ice cream. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.

Notes

  1. Tossing cherries with arrowroot ensures a thicker filling, but the dessert remains delicious without it.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 23x23 cm baking dish or 26 cm cast iron skillet
  • Oven

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains tree nuts (almonds and coconut)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 290
  • Total Fat: 16 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 33 g
  • Protein: 5 g