There's something very autumn about fruit crisps -- especially those that include apples. So, this month, we're enjoying one that combines the season's best apples with some slightly tart cherries that results in a great dessert that can only be made better with a scoop of ice cream -- traditionally vanilla, but try to find cinnamon for something special.
As much as the fruit is absolutely necessary to make this dessert, there's something magical about the topping. As it bakes, it becomes this crunchy crust that can be broken into bits and enjoyed with the warm fruity filling hidden beneath. With thick-cut oatmeal and cinnamon in the mix, it will have you thinking of the best aspects of fall. So make up a batch and enjoy it in front of the season's first fire in the fireplace or after racking autumn leaves. Ah ... fall is here.
As always, I encourage you to share your recipe ideas and comments. You can always post comments in the discussion board using the forms provided in the articles or email me directly at . Enjoy!
Simple Cherry-Apple Crisp
- 1/3 c. flour
- 2/3 c. thick-cut oats
- 1/4 c. brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 1/4 c. butter
- 1 tsp. vanilla, divided
- 1/4 c. apple cider
- 2 T. white sugar
- 1 tsp. cornstarch
- 2 c. cherries -- pitted
- 3 c. peeled and sliced apples
- Cooking spray
Combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, butter and 1/2 tsp. vanilla in a small bowl and mix vigorously until a crumbly mixture forms. Set aside.
Combine 1/2 tsp. vanilla, apple cider, white sugar and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Whisk vigorously and heat over medium heat until thickened and bubbly. Toss the cider mixture with the cherries and apples. Spray a medium casserole dish cooking spray and pour the fruit into the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle the crumb mixture over the fruit and bake, covered, for 30 minutes at 375 degrees. Uncover and continue baking for another 30 minutes. Serve warm over ice cream.
- Yields: 4 servings
- Preparation Time: 90 minutes