Cherry crumble is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of cherries with a crunchy hazelnut topping. This Cherry Crumble Recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a summer picnic, or a cozy night in. The combination of fresh cherries and nutty streusel makes it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to choice for both novice and experienced bakers.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cherry Filling
- For the Hazelnut Streusel Topping
- For Serving
- How to Make Cherry Crumble Recipe
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Cook the Cherry Filling
- Step 3: Make the Hazelnut Streusel
- Step 4: Bake the Crumble
- Step 5: Serve
- How to Serve Cherry Crumble Recipe
- Classic Warm with Ice Cream
- Chilled with Whipped Cream
- A La Mode with Flavored Ice Cream
- With Fresh Berries
- Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Accompanied by Hot Coffee or Tea
- How to Perfect Cherry Crumble Recipe
- Best Side Dishes for Cherry Crumble Recipe
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Cherry Crumble Recipe
- Reheating Cherry Crumble Recipe
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a Cherry Crumble Recipe?
- Can I use frozen cherries for my Cherry Crumble Recipe?
- How can I make my Cherry Crumble Recipe gluten-free?
- What other fruits can I use in my crumble?
- Can I add spices other than cinnamon?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Tasty: The sweet cherries paired with the nutty streusel create an irresistible flavor combination.
- Simple to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginners can achieve great results.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm or cold, with ice cream or whipped cream.
- Customizable: Add lemon zest or chocolate chips for extra flavor variations.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for gatherings, celebrations, or just a sweet treat at home.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your cherry crumble, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Heavy-bottom saucepan
- Baking dish (ramekins or pie dish)
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Crucial for combining ingredients effectively without mess.
- Heavy-bottom saucepan: Prevents burning while cooking the cherry filling.
- Baking dish: Ensures even baking and presentation of your crumble.
Ingredients
For the Cherry Filling
- 2 lb / 1 kg / 6 cups cherries, cleaned and pitted
- 1/4 cup / 50 g / 1.8 oz brown sugar, packed (can sub for granulated/white sugar)
- 3 tbsp cornstarch (cornflour)
For the Hazelnut Streusel Topping
- 1 1/2 cups / 200 g / 7 oz all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup / 100 g / 3.5 oz brown sugar, packed
- 2/3 cup / 100 g / 3.5 oz ground hazelnuts
- 2/3 cup / 150 g / 5.3 oz cold butter, cut into cubes, plus some extra for greasing (can use salted or unsalted)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
For Serving
- Icing (confectioners’/powdered) sugar for decorating

How to Make Cherry Crumble Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F / 180°C / gas mark 4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup in case any cherry filling bubbles over. Grease your ramekins or pie dish with butter.
Step 2: Cook the Cherry Filling
- Combine pitted cherries, brown sugar, and cornstarch in a heavy-bottom saucepan.
- Stir until well mixed and let sit for 20 minutes to an hour to allow the cherries to release their juices.
- If needed, add water or cherry juice (3/4 – 1 cup) to help create moisture.
- Cook over medium heat for about 10 to 15 minutes until the mixture thickens, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 3: Make the Hazelnut Streusel
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, brown sugar, ground hazelnuts, cinnamon, and cold butter cubes.
- Use your fingertips to knead the mixture into a crumbly texture. Squeeze together to form larger clumps.
Step 4: Bake the Crumble
Spoon the cherry filling into your prepared baking dish(es) and evenly top with the hazelnut streusel mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 – 25 minutes until golden brown.
Step 5: Serve
Once baked, dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your cherry crumble warm or cold alongside whipped cream or ice cream!
How to Serve Cherry Crumble Recipe
Cherry crumble is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your cherry crumble experience.
Classic Warm with Ice Cream
- Serve the cherry crumble warm straight from the oven, topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic and comforting dessert.
Chilled with Whipped Cream
- Allow the crumble to cool and serve it chilled, adorned with freshly whipped cream. This adds a light and airy texture that balances the richness of the dish.
A La Mode with Flavored Ice Cream
- Experiment with different ice cream flavors, such as chocolate or almond, to complement the sweet cherries and nutty streusel for a unique twist.
With Fresh Berries
- Garnish each serving with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries. Their tartness enhances the sweetness of the cherry filling.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- For an indulgent touch, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top before serving. This adds a rich sweetness that pairs beautifully with cherries.
Accompanied by Hot Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy your cherry crumble alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage perfectly complements this baked delight.
How to Perfect Cherry Crumble Recipe
To make your cherry crumble even better, consider these handy tips for perfection.
- Use fresh cherries: Fresh cherries yield the best flavor and texture, enhancing your cherry filling’s overall taste.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste your cherries before baking. Depending on their sweetness, you may want to adjust the amount of brown sugar.
- Avoid overcooking: Keep an eye on your crumble while baking. Overcooking can cause it to become dry; aim for golden-brown topping.
- Experiment with spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the streusel for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cherries well.
- Let it rest: Allowing your crumble to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely for easier serving.
- Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh for another day.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Crumble Recipe
Cherry crumble pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice that melts beautifully over warm cherry crumble.
- Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: These soft and spicy treats add a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.
- Almond Biscotti: A crunchy biscuit that offers a nutty flavor, perfect for dipping into coffee or tea alongside your dessert.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can balance out the sweetness of cherry crumble.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides refreshing acidity that complements the richness of the dessert.
- Chocolate Mousse: Rich and creamy mousse is an elegant pairing that creates an indulgent experience when served together.
- Coffee Cake: The crumbly texture of coffee cake harmonizes well with cherry crumble for those who love layered desserts.
- Pecan Pie Bars: These bars introduce pecan’s nuttiness alongside sweet elements, making them an interesting companion.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a cherry crumble, it’s easy to overlook key steps that can affect the final result. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Using unpitted cherries: Always make sure to pit the cherries before cooking them. Unpitted cherries can ruin the texture and flavor of your crumble, plus they can be unpleasant to bite into.
- Not macerating enough: Failing to let the cherries sit with sugar before cooking can lead to a watery filling. Allow at least 20 minutes for the cherries to draw out their natural juices.
- Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can either undercook or overcook your crumble. Always preheat your oven properly to ensure even cooking.
- Skipping the streusel mixing: If you don’t mix the streusel ingredients thoroughly, you might end up with uneven texture. Make sure to combine everything well until you have crumbly clumps.
- Not letting it cool: Serving the cherry crumble immediately after baking can result in a messy serving. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving for better slice integrity.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Containers: Use an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap.
Freezing Cherry Crumble Recipe
- Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Containers: Place in an airtight freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
Reheating Cherry Crumble Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cherry Crumble Recipe?
A cherry crumble recipe is a dessert made of sweet cherries topped with a crumbly mixture of flour, sugar, and nuts, baked until golden brown.
Can I use frozen cherries for my Cherry Crumble Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries! Just be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before adding them to your filling mixture.
How can I make my Cherry Crumble Recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This will allow you to enjoy delicious cherry crumble without gluten.
What other fruits can I use in my crumble?
You can experiment with various fruits like blueberries, peaches, or apples. Each fruit brings its unique flavor while maintaining the delicious crumble topping!
Can I add spices other than cinnamon?
Absolutely! You could try nutmeg or cardamom for different flavor profiles that complement the sweetness of the cherries wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
This cherry crumble recipe is not only delicious but also offers plenty of room for customization. Whether you choose to add chocolate chips or experiment with different fruits, each version has its appeal. Encourage your friends and family to try this versatile dessert—they’ll surely love it!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Cherry Crumble
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Cherry Crumble, a dessert that perfectly marries the sweetness of ripe cherries with a crunchy hazelnut topping. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a cozy night at home, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress. With its vibrant color and irresistible taste, Cherry Crumble is not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled with whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. This versatile dessert allows you to customize the flavors by adding spices or even chocolate chips, making it adaptable for any taste preference.
Ingredients
- 2 lb cherries, cleaned and pitted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for streusel)
- 2/3 cup ground hazelnuts
- 2/3 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease your baking dish and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a heavy-bottom saucepan, combine cherries, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Let sit for at least 20 minutes before cooking over medium heat until thickened (10-15 minutes).
- For the streusel topping, mix flour, brown sugar, ground hazelnuts, cinnamon, and cold butter in a bowl until crumbly.
- Pour the cherry filling into your baking dish and top with the streusel mixture.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg