Cherry Crumb Pie: A Buttery, Fruity Dessert Perfect for Any Season

Cherry crumb pie is the perfect dessert to showcase the sweetness of summer cherries with the comforting crunch of a buttery oat topping. Whether you’re baking it for a backyard gathering or just want something nostalgic and satisfying, this cherry crumb pie delivers a delicious balance of juicy fruit and golden crumble without the need for a complicated double crust. It’s also flexible with ingredients, can be made with fresh or frozen cherries, and is surprisingly simple to prepare even for beginner bakers.

Why This Cherry Crumb Pie Stands Out

This cherry crumb pie is more than just a pretty slice—it’s full of flavor and texture that hits every note:

• Balanced Flavors: The combination of sweet cherries, vanilla, and almond extract, plus a touch of crystallized ginger, creates an aromatic, deep flavor that isn’t overly sweet.
• Seasonal or Year-Round: Use fresh cherries in the summer, or frozen ones any time of year. Both work beautifully.
• No-Fuss Topping: Instead of a traditional crust, this pie features a hearty oat crumb topping that’s easier to make and adds delightful texture.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Both the filling and the topping can be made in advance, and the pie stores well for leftovers.

What You’ll Need for This Cherry Crumb Pie

• Sweet Cherries: The heart of the pie. Their natural juiciness and sweetness shine after baking.
• Crystallized Ginger: Adds warmth and depth. Optional, but brings out the cherry flavor beautifully.
• Granulated Sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit.
• Tapioca Starch: Thickens the filling to avoid a runny pie. Cornstarch or flour also work.
• Vanilla Extract: Provides a floral, mellow undertone to the cherries.
• Almond Extract: Lends a nutty essence that pairs well with cherries.
• Pie Crust: Store-bought or homemade. This recipe only needs a bottom crust.
• Rolled Oats: Forms the base of the crumble topping. Adds chewy texture.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps form the crumble structure.
• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the topping.
• Cold Butter: Binds the crumble ingredients together for a crisp texture.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations to Try

• Frozen Cherries: No fresh cherries? Frozen work great. Just thaw and drain them well to avoid a soggy pie.
• Mixed Berries: Try substituting some cherries with raspberries or blackberries for a tangy twist.
• Cornstarch or Flour: Replace tapioca starch with 3 tbsp of cornstarch or 4 tbsp flour.
• Ground Ginger: Skip crystallized ginger and use ½ tsp ground ginger for a subtler flavor.
• Almond Flour: Want a nuttier, gluten-free crumble? Swap all-purpose for almond flour.
• Chopped Nuts: Add chopped almonds or pecans to the crumble for crunch and extra richness.
• Vanilla Only: Out of almond extract? Use extra vanilla—it still tastes fantastic.

How to Make Cherry Crumb Pie: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat Your Oven
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your pie dish with a rolled-out crust.
2. Make the Cherry Filling
   Combine 1 lb of pitted sweet cherries, ½ cup sugar, 2 tbsp tapioca starch, 1 tsp vanilla extract, ½ tsp almond extract, 2 tbsp chopped crystallized ginger, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan.
   Cook over low heat until the mixture thickens slightly. Let cool before adding to the crust.
3. Blind Bake the Pie Crust (Optional but Recommended)
   To prevent a soggy bottom, blind bake the pie crust for 10 minutes. This is especially helpful if your cherries are very juicy.
4. Prepare the Crumble Topping
   In a bowl, mix ¾ cup rolled oats, ¼ cup flour, ¼ cup sugar, ½ tsp cinnamon, and 3 tbsp cold butter.
   Use your hands or a fork to combine until it forms crumbly clusters.
5. Assemble the Pie
   Pour the cherry filling into the pie crust and spread evenly.
   Sprinkle the crumble topping over the cherries, covering the entire surface.
6. Bake the Pie
   Bake at 350°F for 50–60 minutes. Watch for the crumble to turn golden and the filling to bubble.
   If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil after 30 minutes.
7. Cool and Serve
   Let the pie cool for at least 3 hours before slicing. This allows the filling to set, making it easier to serve clean slices.

Expert Tips for the Best Cherry Crumb Pie

• Avoid Soggy Bottoms: Drain frozen cherries thoroughly or pat fresh ones dry.
• Blind Bake for Stability: Helps ensure a crisp crust.
• Foil to the Rescue: Shield the crumble topping with foil if it browns too fast.
• Cooling is Crucial: Letting the pie rest ensures a set filling and prevents messy slices.
• Enhance Flavor: A pinch of salt in the crumble helps balance sweetness.

Serving Ideas and Delicious Variations

• Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla brings creamy contrast to the warm pie.
•Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this is a great alternative to ice cream.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne to the crumble for a subtle heat.
• Citrus Twist: Stir a bit of lemon or orange zest into the filling for brightness.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a GF pie crust and swap flour with almond or oat flour.
• Berry Blend: Combine cherries with blackberries or raspberries for complexity.
• Make-Ahead Note: Bake the pie a day in advance and refrigerate. Warm slices as needed.

When to Make Cherry Crumb Pie

Cherry crumb pie is ideal during summer cherry season, but because it works just as well with frozen cherries, you can enjoy it year-round. It’s perfect for 4th of July gatherings, potlucks, Thanksgiving, or just a cozy weekend treat.

Storing Your Cherry Crumb Pie

• At Room Temp: Keeps fresh for 2 days when loosely covered.
• In the Fridge: Store up to 5 days. The topping may soften slightly but remains tasty.
• Freezer Friendly: Freeze for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat slices at 350°F for 10 minutes.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this cherry crumb pie is a must-try. Its sweet, tart flavor and crunchy topping make it a comforting dessert that never goes out of style.

Conclusion

There’s something timeless and comforting about a homemade cherry crumb pie. From the tender, juicy cherry filling to the crisp oat topping, every bite is bursting with balanced flavor and texture. It’s easy enough for weeknight baking, yet impressive enough for holidays or special occasions. With flexible ingredients and make-ahead convenience, this cherry crumb pie deserves a spot in your favorite dessert rotation. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed chilled with coffee, it’s the kind of recipe that brings people together and leaves no crumbs behind.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Crumb Pie

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