Cherry Almond Crumble – A Perfectly Sweet and Crunchy Dessert
Desserts bring joy to any meal, and if they are both delicious and easy to make, it’s a win-win! One such delightful treat is Cherry Almond Crumble, a dessert that balances the tartness of cherries with the rich, nutty flavor of almonds and the crunch of oats. This dish is perfect for the July-August season when fresh US Northwest Cherries are at their peak. Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoy it at room temperature, this crumble is a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Why Do People Hesitate to Make Desserts at Home?
Many people love desserts but avoid making them at home because they think it requires too much effort or special baking skills. Others worry about the sugar content and unhealthy ingredients in traditional sweets. There’s also a misconception that baked desserts take too long to prepare and require expensive ingredients.
However, Cherry Almond Crumble proves that you don’t need to be a professional baker to whip up a delicious treat. This recipe is simple, requires minimal ingredients, and is much healthier than store-bought sweets. Plus, it’s a great way to use fresh cherries while they are in season!
Health Benefits of Cherry Almond Crumble
Cherries are not just delicious; they are also packed with nutrients. They are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and improve heart health. Cherries also contain natural melatonin, which promotes better sleep. Since this recipe uses brown sugar instead of refined white sugar, it is a healthier alternative to regular desserts.
Almonds and oats add even more nutritional value to this dish. Almonds are a great source of healthy fats, vitamin E, and protein, making this crumble both nourishing and satisfying. Oats are high in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you full for longer. By replacing part of the flour with oats, this crumble gets an extra crunch while being healthier than traditional flour-based desserts.
How to Make Cherry Almond Crumble
Start by preparing the cherries. Take 150-200 grams of fresh US Northwest Cherries, which are available only in July and August. Remove the seeds and cut them in half. In a bowl, mix the cherries with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of cornflour. Stir well and keep it aside. This mixture helps bring out the natural sweetness of the cherries while giving them a slightly thick texture when baked.
Next, prepare the crumble topping. In a bowl, mix ¼ cup atta (whole wheat flour) or maida (all-purpose flour), ½ cup rolled oats, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, a pinch of salt, a few drops of vanilla essence, 3 tablespoons chilled butter, and ¼ cup almond flakes. Gently mix everything together without using your hands too much, as you want a rough, crumbly texture. The butter helps create that perfect crunchy topping when baked.
Now it’s time to assemble and bake! Take a baking tray and spread the cherry mixture evenly. Cover the cherries with the crumble topping, making sure it is distributed well. Preheat your oven to 180°C and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top turns a beautiful golden color. The heat will allow the cherries to soften and release their juices while the topping becomes crispy and aromatic.
Conclusion
Cherry Almond Crumble is not just a dessert; it’s a wholesome treat that combines natural ingredients with delicious flavors. It’s easy to make, requires minimal preparation, and is perfect for summer gatherings. Whether you serve it hot with vanilla ice cream or enjoy it as is, this dish is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh cherries in a unique and tasty way.
Homemade desserts don’t have to be complicated! This Cherry Almond Crumble recipe is proof that you can create a restaurant-style dessert with simple ingredients. So the next time you have fresh cherries on hand, try this quick and easy crumble—you’ll love the combination of soft, juicy cherries and crunchy, nutty topping. Happy baking!
