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When it comes to dessert, few dishes embody the comforting charm of a warm fruit crisp. Among these, cherry crisp stands out for its unique balance of flavors and textures. The tartness of fresh or frozen cherries pairs harmoniously with a crunchy, golden topping, creating a delightful contrast that appeals to both the palate and the senses. This dessert not only satisfies a sweet tooth but also offers an inviting aroma that fills the kitchen, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a simple weeknight treat.

Zesty Cherry Crisp

Discover the joys of baking with this zesty cherry crisp recipe that brings together the tartness of cherries and a delightful crunchy topping. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dessert is adaptable for fresh or frozen cherries. With simple ingredients like rolled oats, brown sugar, and a hint of lemon, you can create a comforting treat that fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. Get ready to impress everyone with this easy-to-follow guide!
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Ingredients
  

For the Cherry Filling:

4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Zest of 1 lemon

A pinch of salt

For the Crisp Topping:

1 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

A pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Prepare the Cherry Filling:

      - In a large mixing bowl, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and salt. Toss until the cherries are evenly coated.

        - Pour the cherry mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.

          Make the Crisp Topping:

            - In another bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and optional nuts (if using).

              - Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture is crumbly and all the dry ingredients are evenly moistened.

                Assemble the Crisp:

                  - Evenly sprinkle the oat mixture over the cherry filling in the baking dish, covering it completely.

                    Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling around the edges.

                      Cool and Serve: Remove the cherry crisp from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This dish is delicious served warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top.

                        Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 8 servings