How to Make a Delicious Vegan Tart Cherry Crisp

Mystie Tanner
Jul 15
2 min read

If you're looking for a cozy, comforting dessert that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, look no further than tart cherry crisp. This fruit-forward treat is bursting with juicy flavor and topped with a buttery, golden oat crumble that makes it irresistible. Whether you use fresh, frozen, or canned tart cherries, this recipe is simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why Tart Cherries?

Tart cherries (also called sour cherries or Montmorency cherries) are known for their bright, tangy flavor and vibrant red color. Unlike sweet cherries, their bold bite pairs beautifully with a sugary crisp topping, making them ideal for baking. Plus, they’re loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds—a little bonus for your health!

Ingredients:

For the filling:

4 cups tart cherries (pitted; fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)

3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

2 tablespoons flour

1 tsp. Vanilla

For the crisp topping:

1 cup rolled oats

3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)

3/4 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar

½ teaspoon cinnamon

¼ teaspoon salt

1/2 cup coconut oil

¼ cup chopped nuts (optional – pecans or almonds work well)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9-inch baking dish.

Make the Cherry Filling:

In a large bowl, combine the tart cherries, sugar, vanilla and flour, Stir until everything is well coated and thickened slightly. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish.

Prepare the Crisp Topping:

In another bowl, mix the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the coconut oil and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the topping resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the nuts, if using.

Assemble the Crisp:

Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the cherries.

Bake:

Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbling around the edges.

Cool Slightly & Serve:

Let the crisp cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. It’s delicious on its own or paired with a scoop of dairy free vanilla ice cream. * Try it with out Vegan Protein Ice Cream

Tips & Variations:

Make it gluten-free by using almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

Swap the sweetener with maple syrup in the filling and coconut sugar in the topping for a more natural option.

Add a twist by mixing in a handful of blueberries or raspberries with the cherries.

Make individual crisps in ramekins for a fun presentation.

Final Thoughts:

Tart cherry crisp is the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you're serving it at a summer gathering, holiday dinner, or just enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is a sweet and simple way to enjoy the bold flavor of tart cherries. Give it a try and savor the cozy goodness!

What's your favorite kind of crisp?