Recipes

Cherry Chocolate Crisp Delights Home Bakers With Simple Ingredients

By The Pioneer Woman » Pancake •

Why This Dessert Works for Any Occasion

Ree Drummond introduced her Cherry Chocolate Crisp recipe on September 18, 2026, through her food and cooking platform. The dessert combines tart cherries with rich chocolate and a buttery oat topping for a quick homemade treat. Drummond emphasized that the flavor pairing creates an unbeatable combination suitable for weeknight baking or casual entertaining.

The recipe relies on accessible ingredients including fresh or frozen cherries, semi-sweet chocolate chips, flour, sugar, butter, and oats. Drummond noted that the crisp comes together in under an hour, requiring minimal preparation before baking. She highlighted how the chocolate melts into the warm cherries during cooking, creating a saucy base beneath the crunchy topping.

Can You Make This Ahead of Time?

Drummond explained that the balance of sweet and tart flavors prevents the dish from becoming overly sugary, making it appealing to a wide range of palates. She suggested serving it warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to enhance the texture contrast. The recipe’s flexibility allows for substitutions such as using almond flour or coconut sugar without compromising the final result.

According to Drummond, the unbaked crisp can be assembled and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking, making it convenient for planning ahead. She advised adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for three days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.

Can I use other fruits instead of cherries? Yes, Drummond mentioned that berries like raspberries or blackberries work well, though baking time may vary slightly depending on moisture content.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to use both dark and milk chocolate? No, the recipe calls for semi-sweet chocolate chips, but Drummond said milk or dark chocolate can be used based on personal preference.

How do I prevent the topping from getting soggy? Drummond recommended ensuring the cherry filling is not overly juicy and baking until the topping is golden brown and crisp to the touch.