Bourbon Cherry Crisp

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bourbon cherry crisp combines the natural sweetness of cherries with the depth of bourbon, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The addition of bourbon enhances the flavor of the cherries, making each bite more complex and satisfying. The crispy oat topping adds a perfect crunch that contrasts beautifully with the juicy, tender fruit underneath. Easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, this dessert is ideal for any occasion, from casual dinners to holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

For the filling:

• 4 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted (sweet or tart cherries work well)

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 2 tablespoons bourbon

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

For the topping:

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

• Pinch of salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the filling: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the cherries, sugar, bourbon, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Toss the mixture to coat the cherries evenly, and then transfer it to a greased 9×9-inch baking dish or similar-sized oven-safe dish.

2. Make the topping: In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter throughout.

3. Assemble the crisp: Evenly sprinkle the oat topping over the cherry filling, covering it completely.

4. Bake the crisp: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. If the topping is browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking until done.

5. Cool and serve: Remove the cherry crisp from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set. Serve warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, and the baking time is 40-45 minutes. Total time is approximately 1 hour, including cooling.

Variations

• Different fruits: You can use other fruits like peaches, blueberries, or raspberries, or even mix and match different fruits with cherries for added complexity.

• Spicy bourbon cherry crisp: Add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to the topping for a spicier kick that complements the bourbon.

• Nutty topping: For a bit of crunch, add chopped nuts such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the oat topping mixture.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free oats and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this dessert gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover bourbon cherry crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. It can also be eaten cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use canned cherries instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes, you can use canned cherries. Be sure to drain them thoroughly and adjust the sugar in the filling depending on the sweetness of the canned cherries.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crisp ahead of time by assembling the filling and topping and storing them separately in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to bake, assemble and bake as instructed.

Can I make this without bourbon?

Yes, if you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with an equal amount of fruit juice (such as cherry juice) or water for a non-alcoholic version. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

How do I know when the crisp is done baking?

The crisp is done when the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling around the edges. If you poke a spoon into the filling, it should be thickened and slightly sticky.

Can I freeze bourbon cherry crisp?

Yes, you can freeze the crisp before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the crisp, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 50-60 minutes. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, then wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for 20-25 minutes to warm through.

What ice cream pairs best with bourbon cherry crisp?

Vanilla ice cream is a classic choice that complements the warm cherries and bourbon flavor, but cinnamon, caramel, or even bourbon-flavored ice cream would make a delicious pairing.

Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of bourbon?

If you’re not a fan of bourbon, you can substitute it with another spirit like rum, brandy, or even a splash of dark beer. For a non-alcoholic option, you can use fruit juice or apple cider.

How do I make the topping extra crispy?

For an extra crispy topping, you can add a small handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the oat topping. The added texture and fat will create a crunchier finish.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just use a larger baking dish (like a 9×13-inch pan) and increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

Conclusion

Bourbon cherry crisp is a decadent and comforting dessert that takes the classic fruit crisp to the next level with the rich, smooth flavor of bourbon. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to end a meal or an indulgent dessert for a special occasion, this bourbon cherry crisp is sure to satisfy. With a perfect balance of tender fruit, crispy topping, and a hint of bourbon, this dessert is a warm, delicious way to enjoy the flavors of summer (or any season!). Enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.