Cherry Crumb Pie – Best Easy Recipe with Crumble Topping

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked cherry crumb pie wafting through the kitchen — especially when it’s made with juicy, sweet cherries and a golden, buttery crumble. Whether you’re serving it warm with ice cream at a summer BBQ or pulling a slice from the freezer in winter, this pie is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. With its flaky crust, tart-sweet fruit filling, and crunchy oat topping, this cherry crumb pie brings together the best of texture and flavor — no top crust required.

Why This Cherry Crumb Pie Stands Out

This cherry crumb pie recipe is more than just your average fruit dessert — it’s a winning combination of flavor, texture, and convenience.

• Effortless to Assemble: Thanks to a crumb topping and no top crust, this pie comes together without any complicated dough rolling or lattice work.
• Seasonal or Year-Round: Use fresh cherries when in season or frozen ones for a no-fuss, anytime treat.
• Perfect Flavor Balance: Crystallized ginger and almond essence add warm, unexpected notes that complement the sweet-tart cherries beautifully.
• Family-Friendly and Customizable: Make it dairy-free or change up the fruit blend — this recipe is easy to adapt without sacrificing quality.
• Stunning Texture: From the flaky bottom crust to the juicy cherry center and crisp oat crumble, every bite delivers contrast and satisfaction.

What You’ll Need for This Pie

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients and what each brings to the table:

• Sweet Cherries: The heart of the pie, offering rich color and a sweet-tart burst. Use Bing or Rainier for best results.
• Crystallized Ginger: Adds warmth and subtle spice for a more complex flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the natural sweetness and rounds out the filling.
• Almond Extract: Lends a delicate nutty note that elevates the cherry flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the filling and the crumble without overpowering.
• Instant Tapioca: Thickens the filling so you get clean slices instead of a runny mess.
• Pie Crust: Provides a flaky base; store-bought or homemade both work well.
• Rolled Oats: Bring crunch and rustic charm to the topping.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds depth and warmth to the crumble.
• Cold Butter: Creates that buttery, crispy texture in the topping.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps bind the crumble and keeps it crisp.

Ingredient Swaps and Additions to Make It Yours

Need to adjust based on what’s in your pantry or dietary preferences? No problem.

• Frozen Cherries: Work just as well as fresh — just thaw and drain first.
• Tapioca Substitute: Use 3 tbsp cornstarch or 4 tbsp flour if needed.
• No Ginger? Skip it or swap with ½ tsp ground ginger.
• Oat Swap: Quick oats can work, though texture suffers. Nuts like pecans or almonds also add crunch.
• Flour Options: Whole wheat or almond flour offer variations in texture and nutrition.
• No Almond Essence? Double the vanilla — the pie will still be delicious.

How to Make Cherry Crumb Pie from Scratch

1. Prep the Ingredients and Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid a soggy filling.
2. Make the Cherry Filling
   In a saucepan, combine 7–8 cups of pitted cherries with 1¼ cups sugar, ¼ cup cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Cook over low heat, stirring gently until thickened. Stir in 1 tsp vanilla and ½ tsp almond extract. Let cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Crust
   Roll out your 9-inch pie crust and gently press it into your pie plate. Crimp the edges for a decorative look and to hold the filling.
4. Mix the Crumb Topping
   Melt 6 tbsp butter, then stir in ½ cup brown sugar, ¾ cup flour, ½ tsp vanilla, and 1 tsp cinnamon until it forms coarse crumbs.
5. Assemble the Pie
   Pour the cherry mixture into the crust and spread evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the filling, breaking it into pea-sized clumps as you go.
6. Bake the Pie
   Bake for 50–60 minutes until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbling. Cover loosely with foil if the topping browns too quickly. Cool for at least 15 minutes before serving — longer if you want cleaner slices.

Expert Baking Tips for the Perfect Cherry Crumb Pie

• Avoid Soggy Bottoms: Blind bake your crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
• Control Moisture: Pat cherries dry (if fresh) and drain frozen ones thoroughly.
• Golden Crumb, Not Burnt: Cover the pie with foil once topping is golden to prevent burning.
• Let It Set: Cooling for 3+ hours helps the filling firm up and gives the best texture.

How to Serve and Store Cherry Crumb Pie

Pair your cherry crumb pie with something creamy to balance its fruit-forward nature:

• Classic Pairings: Vanilla ice cream, fresh whipped cream, or a splash of heavy cream.
• Beverage Buddies: Hot coffee or black tea cut through the sweetness perfectly.
• Pretty Touches: A dusting of powdered sugar makes for an elegant finish.

Storage Tips:

• Room Temp: Cover with foil or plastic and keep on the counter for 2 days.
• Fridge: Keeps well for up to 5 days. Expect the crumble to soften slightly.
• Freezer-Friendly: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore that fresh-baked feel.

Creative Variations and Cherry Pie Twists

Want to take your cherry crumb pie to the next level or make it your own?

• Berry Blend: Mix cherries with blackberries or raspberries for a deep, rich filling.
• Spiced Crust: Add nutmeg or cardamom to your crumble for a warm twist.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use almond flour for the topping and a gluten-free crust.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne to the crumble for a subtle heat contrast.
• Mini Pies: Make in muffin tins for adorable, single-serve portions.

Why Cherry Crumb Pie Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Rotation

Cherry crumb pie isn’t just a summer dessert — it’s a year-round favorite that adapts beautifully to what’s in season and what’s in your pantry. The contrast of textures, the deep cherry flavor brightened by almond and ginger, and the irresistible crumb topping make it an unforgettable treat. It’s easy enough for a weeknight bake and impressive enough for any gathering. Whether you’re using frozen fruit in January or picking cherries fresh in July, this cherry crumb pie will have everyone asking for seconds.

Conclusion: A Crumb-Topped Classic Worth Every Bite

Whether you’re baking for a summer picnic, a cozy holiday table, or simply craving something nostalgic and sweet, this cherry crumb pie offers the ideal balance of flavor, texture, and ease. With its flaky base, luscious cherry filling, and golden oat topping, it’s a go-to dessert that works year-round with either fresh or frozen cherries. The flexibility of ingredients, easy assembly, and stunning presentation make it a baker’s favorite. Once you make it, it’s guaranteed to become a recipe you return to again and again.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Crumb Pie

More Relevant Recipes

• Homemade Fresh Pumpkin Pie: A cozy classic much like cherry crumb pie, this recipe offers a flaky crust and rich, spiced filling perfect for fall gatherings. Ideal for those who love traditional fruit pies with seasonal flair.
• Spooky Good Berry Pie: This mixed berry pie shares the sweet-tart profile of cherry crumb pie and features a flaky crust with juicy filling — great for any time of year, not just Halloween!
• Apple Crumble Cheesecake: Combining a creamy cheesecake base with a cinnamon-apple topping and buttery crumble, this dessert mirrors the texture and warmth of a cherry crumb pie but adds a rich twist.

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