Cherry Almond Crisp Recipe

Cherries: Fresh, pitted cherries provide the base for this crisp, offering a burst of juicy flavor.

Almond flour: This gluten-free flour adds a nutty taste and a tender texture to the topping.

Rolled oats: These give the crisp its characteristic crunch and heartiness.

Maple syrup: A natural sweetener that enhances the flavor of the cherries without being overly sweet.

Coconut oil: Used in place of butter, it adds a subtle coconut flavor and helps bind the topping ingredients together.

Almond extract: This extract intensifies the almond flavor, making the dessert more aromatic and flavorful.

Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

When preparing the cherries, make sure they are evenly pitted to avoid any unpleasant surprises while eating. To enhance the flavor, you can macerate the cherries by letting them sit with the almond extract for about 15 minutes before spreading them in the baking dish. This allows the cherries to absorb the almond extract more thoroughly, resulting in a richer taste.

• Cherries - Substitute with blueberries: Blueberries provide a similar tartness and sweetness, making them a great alternative.

• Almond flour - Substitute with oat flour: Oat flour offers a similar texture and is also gluten-free, making it a suitable replacement.

• Rolled oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes have a similar texture and nutritional profile, making them a good alternative.

• Maple syrup - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar has a similar sweetness and consistency, making it a suitable replacement.

• Coconut oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a similar fat content and can be used in the same quantity.

• Almond extract - Substitute with vanilla extract: Vanilla extract offers a different but complementary flavor profile, making it a good alternative.

• Salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt provides a similar flavor enhancement and can be used in the same quantity.

• Allow the cherry almond crisp to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the topping soggy.

• For short-term storage, transfer the crisp to an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer, you can also refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just make sure the container is well-sealed to maintain freshness.

• To freeze the cherry almond crisp, first ensure it is fully cooled. Wrap the entire baking dish tightly with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.

• Label the containers with the date to keep track of storage time. The crisp can be frozen for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the cherry almond crisp in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture and flavor.

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If reheating the entire dish, remove any plastic wrap and cover with foil to prevent the topping from burning. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. For individual portions, you can use a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through.

• For an extra crispy topping, consider placing the crisp under the broiler for a minute or two after reheating. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

• Enjoy your cherry almond crisp with a scoop of vegan ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream for an indulgent treat!

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cherry almond crisp in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent the topping from burning. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crispiness of the oat mixture.

• If you're in a hurry, use the microwave. Place a portion of the cherry almond crisp in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it heats evenly. Be cautious, as the coconut oil can make the topping soggy.

• For a quick stovetop method, use a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the cherry almond crisp and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This method can help retain some of the crispiness while ensuring the cherries are heated through.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the cherry almond crisp in an air fryer-safe dish and heat for 5-7 minutes. This method can help revive the crunchy topping while evenly warming the cherry filling.

• Oven: Used to bake the cherry almond crisp at the specified temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Mixing bowl: Needed to mix the cherries with almond extract and to combine the almond flour, rolled oats, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and salt.

• Baking dish: Used to spread the cherries and sprinkle the oat mixture over them before baking.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the quantities of almond flour, rolled oats, maple syrup, and coconut oil.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the almond extract and salt.

• Spatula: Useful for mixing the ingredients together and spreading the oat mixture evenly over the cherries.

• Cherry pitter: Handy for removing the pits from the cherries if they are not pre-pitted.

• Oven mitts: Important for safely handling the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

• Cooling rack: Allows the crisp to cool evenly after baking.

Prepare the filling: Mix the cherries and almond extract the night before and store them in the fridge.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the almond flour, rolled oats, maple syrup, and coconut oil in advance.

Use a food processor: Quickly combine the almond flour, rolled oats, maple syrup, coconut oil, and salt using a food processor.

Line the baking dish: Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy cleanup.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick dessert later.