Name: best cherry crisp recipe – quick & easy dessert
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 (21-ounce) cans cherry pie filling; 1/2 cup quick cooking rolled oats; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 5 tablespoons butter, melted

↓ Jump to Recipe

Print Recipe

there's nothing like a homemade cherry crisp

There's something special about pulling a warm cherry crisp recipe straight from the oven. The filling is bubbly, the topping is golden, and the whole kitchen smells sweet and cozy. For me, this dessert feels like a hug in a dish.

The best part? You only need pantry basics and two cans of cherry pie filling to make it. That means you can have dessert on the table in about 30 minutes-no fancy steps or tricky prep required.

If you love simple fruit desserts, you might also enjoy my easy apple crumble recipe that has the same crunchy topping and a cozy, spiced filling.

Jump to:

there's nothing like a homemade cherry crisp
why this cherry crisp recipe works
ingredients for homemade cherry crisp with oats
step-by-step instructions for the perfect cherry crisp
tips for making the best cherry crisp
variations you can try
serving and storing your baked cherry dessert
frequently asked questions
conclusion - enjoy your homemade cherry crisp
📖 Recipe
💬 Reviews

why this cherry crisp recipe works

Quick prep: You'll spend less than 10 minutes mixing the topping and pouring the filling into the pan.
Simple ingredients: Everything is pantry-friendly, no fresh cherries required.
Perfect texture: Sweet, bubbly filling with a crisp oat topping that's buttery and just the right amount of crunchy.
Beginner-friendly: No pie crusts or complicated steps-just mix, sprinkle, and bake.

ingredients for homemade cherry crisp with oats

Here's exactly what you'll need:

2 (21-ounce) cans cherry pie filling
½ cup quick cooking rolled oats
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup packed brown sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
5 tablespoons butter, melted

step-by-step instructions for the perfect cherry crisp

step 1: prep the pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-12 inch cast iron skillet or a 9x9 inch baking dish with butter.

step 2: add the filling

Open the cans of cherry pie filling and pour them into the pan. Spread evenly so the topping bakes the same all over.

step 3: make the topping

In a medium bowl, stir together the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and mix until crumbly.

step 4: assemble and bake

Sprinkle the topping evenly over the cherries. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the filling is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

step 5: serve and enjoy

Let the crisp cool for 5 minutes before serving. It's delicious warm, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

tips for making the best cherry crisp

Cast iron works great: It keeps the heat even and gives the topping a nice crunch.
Add extra crunch: Mix in chopped pecans or almonds with the oat topping.
Go dairy-free: Swap the butter for coconut oil if needed.
Make it ahead: Assemble the topping in advance, then sprinkle it over the cherries right before baking.

variations you can try

Mixed berry crisp: Swap one can of cherry pie filling for blueberry or raspberry pie filling.
Apple-cherry combo: Stir sliced apples into the filling before baking.
Gluten-free version: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.

serving and storing your baked cherry dessert

Serve warm: Best enjoyed right from the oven with ice cream.
Store leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to crisp the topping again.

frequently asked questions

Q1: Can I use fresh or frozen cherries instead of canned pie filling?
Yes, but you'll need to cook them down with sugar and cornstarch first so the filling thickens.

Q2: How do I keep the topping crisp?
Let the crisp cool slightly before covering. Storing while hot traps steam, making the topping soft.

Q3: Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use a 9x13 inch baking dish and double the topping ingredients.

Q4: Do I need quick oats or can I use old-fashioned oats?
Quick oats give a softer topping, while old-fashioned oats add more chew. Either will work-pick what you prefer.

conclusion - enjoy your homemade cherry crisp

This cherry crisp recipe is one of those desserts I turn to when I want something sweet without the fuss. It's quick, it's easy, and it always disappears fast at my table. Whether you're baking for a weeknight treat or bringing dessert to a potluck, this recipe is a keeper.

recipes you may like

📖 Recipe