As the sunlight streams through my kitchen window, the scent of sweet cherries fills the air, transporting me back to lazy summer afternoons spent with family. Today, I’m excited to share my cherished recipe for Cherry Crumb Pie, featuring a luscious blend of fresh or frozen cherries tucked beneath a buttery streusel topping. This delightful dessert not only offers a quick and easy way to enjoy the essence of summer but also becomes a crowd-pleaser at any gathering—perfect for those who refuse to settle for fast food. With the option of using store-bought pie crust, you can whip up this nostalgic treat in no time. Who can resist a slice served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream? Let’s dive into baking this scrumptious pie together!

Why Is This Cherry Crumb Pie Special?

Simplicity at its Finest: You don’t need a culinary degree to whip up this delightful dessert! With an option for store-bought pie crust, it’s both quick and convenient.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of juicy cherries and a buttery streusel topping creates a sweet yet tart flavor profile that bursts in every bite.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This pie is a guaranteed hit at summer gatherings, making it the perfect dessert choice for family BBQs or potlucks.

Versatile Ingredients: Use fresh or frozen cherries based on what you have on hand. You can even experiment with different fruits for a unique twist—like a mixed berry version!

Warm and Comforting: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence. Your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Make Ahead Magic: You can prep the filling and streusel in advance, making this pie an effortless yet impressive dessert option! For more summer treats, check out my delicious Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake or the creamy Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake Dip.

Cherry Crumb Pie Ingredients

• To create this irresistible Cherry Crumb Pie, gather the following ingredients!

For the Pie Crust

9-inch Pie Crust – You can use a homemade or store-bought crust; both will work beautifully for this dessert.

For the Cherry Filling

Pitted Cherries (5 cups) – Use fresh or thawed frozen cherries for the best flavor and texture.
Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances the overall flavor of the Cherry Crumb Pie.
Almond Extract (1 teaspoon) – Adds depth and an optional nutty note; substitute with more vanilla if desired.
Granulated Sugar (⅔ cup) – Sweetens the cherry filling; adjust according to the cherries’ tartness.
Corn Starch (¼ cup) – Thickens the filling and prevents excess liquid from making the crust soggy.

For the Streusel Topping

All-Purpose Flour (⅔ cup) – The main component of the streusel topping that gives it a crumbly texture.
Granulated Sugar (¼ cup) – Sweetens the streusel, balancing the tartness of the filling.
Light Brown Sugar (⅓ cup) – Contributes a rich flavor and moisture to the streusel topping.
Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons) – Binds the streusel ingredients and provides a luxurious buttery flavor.
Pinch of Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the pie, bringing out the sweetness in the filling.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cherry Crumb Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will ensure a perfectly baked crust and a beautifully golden topping. While the oven heats up, take a moment to gather all your ingredients and tools, including a large mixing bowl, measuring cups, and a pie dish ready for assembly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Filling
In a large bowl, combine 5 cups of pitted cherries, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of almond extract, and ⅔ cup of granulated sugar. Next, sprinkle in ¼ cup of corn starch and mix well, ensuring the cherries are evenly coated. Allow this mixture to sit for about 5-10 minutes, letting the flavors mingle and juices develop.

Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping
While the cherry filling sits, introduce another bowl for the streusel topping. Mix ⅔ cup of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, ⅓ cup of light brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, and using your fingers, rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles a sandy texture with pea-sized clumps.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Take your chilled 9-inch pie crust and carefully pour the cherry filling into it, trying to leave excess liquid behind for a less soggy crust. Spread the cherries evenly across the bottom of the crust, allowing the vibrant colors to shine through as you prepare to top it with the streusel.

Step 5: Add the Streusel Topping
Generously sprinkle the streusel topping over the cherry filling, ensuring you cover as much of the surface as possible. This will create that delightful crumbly layer that contrasts beautifully with the juicy cherries underneath. Make sure to leave some gaps for the cherries to peek through!

Step 6: Bake the Pie
Place the assembled Cherry Crumb Pie in the preheated oven. Bake at 425°F for 20 minutes, allowing the crust to set and the crumble to start browning. After 20 minutes, reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for an additional 35-40 minutes. Look for the filling to bubble and the streusel to achieve a lovely golden brown hue.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for about 20-30 minutes. This cooling period allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice. As the warm aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll anticipate sharing this delectable Cherry Crumb Pie with family and friends.

Make Ahead Options

These Cherry Crumb Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cherry filling and streusel topping up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For the filling, after mixing the cherries, sugar, and cornstarch, simply cover it tightly to prevent browning. The streusel can be made and refrigerated in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just assemble everything in the crust and pop it in the oven. Baking the pie the same day ensures that it stays just as delicious with that irresistible crumbly topping—perfect for busy weeknights when you want to impress family or friends!

Cherry Crumb Pie Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to tweak this delightful Cherry Crumb Pie recipe—your culinary creativity is welcomed here!

Berry Medley: Swap cherries for mixed berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries for a vibrant twist. The medley of flavors will burst in every bite.
Apple-Cherry Combo: Combine fresh apples with cherries for a sweet-sour dimension. The apples add a delightful crunch and create a unique flavor profile.
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter in the streusel for a dairy-free option. It’s a small change that maintains the delicious crunch!
Nutty Streusel: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel topping for an extra layer of crunch and flavor. The nuts will complement the juicy cherries wonderfully.
Citrus Zest: Brighten the filling with a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest. This fragrant touch will enhance the overall flavor, balancing sweetness and tartness beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the streusel for a warm, aromatic flavor twist. A little spice adds depth and warm comfort to the pie!
Store-Bought Convenience: No time to make a crust? Choose a pre-made, store-bought pie crust for ultimate convenience. It’s a lifesaver while still delivering a delightful dessert.
Creative Crusts: Experiment with graham cracker or almond flour crusts. Not only can this add a fun new flavor, but it also makes the recipe gluten-free!

Let your imagination run wild as you customize this lovely Cherry Crumb Pie to your liking! For more dessert inspiration, try my delectable Pecan Pie Cobbler or mouthwatering Pecan Pie Bars.

How to Store and Freeze Cherry Crumb Pie

Room Temperature: Allow the pie to cool completely, then cover it and store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the Cherry Crumb Pie in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be sure to cover it with plastic wrap or foil to retain moisture.

Freezer: If you need to store it longer, freeze the pie for up to 3 months. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Reheating: To bring back the pie’s delightful warmth, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

What to Serve with Cherry Crumb Pie

There’s something magical about pairing this delightful dessert with the perfect accompaniments to elevate your dining experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream offers a creamy contrast to the tart cherries, turning each bite into a sweet summer delight.
Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream adds a touch of sweetness while enhancing the pie’s fruitiness. Drizzle a touch of vanilla extract for extra flavor!
Coffee: A warm cup of coffee complements the pie’s flavors beautifully, adding a comforting warmth that balances the sweetness and enhances the overall experience.
Fresh Berries: A side of fresh raspberries or blueberries introduces a burst of acidity, brightening the palate while maintaining a vibrant summer theme.
Lemonade: Refreshing lemonade serves as a sunny drink option, with its citrus notes cutting through the richness and heightening the pie’s flavor.
Sliced Almonds: Sprinkling toasted almonds over the pie adds a nutty crunch, enhancing both texture and flavor. They also tie in delightful hints of the almond extract used in the filling.

Expert Tips for Cherry Crumb Pie

Thaw Thoroughly: Allow frozen cherries to thaw for at least 1 hour at room temperature. This releases excess juices, preventing a soggy filling.

Shield the Crust: If the edges of your pie crust brown too quickly while baking, use a pie crust shield or wrap with foil to protect it until the pie is fully cooked.

Gentle Mixing: When combining the cherry filling, avoid over-mixing; this helps retain the cherries’ shape and keeps your Cherry Crumb Pie visually appealing.

Streusel Technique: For a perfect streusel topping, don’t pack it down. Instead, just sprinkle it lightly over the filling to maintain a crumbly texture.

Let It Cool: Resist the temptation to cut into the pie immediately after baking. Letting it cool for 20-30 minutes allows the filling to set, making slicing easier and neater.

Cherry Crumb Pie Recipe FAQs

What kind of cherries should I use for the Cherry Crumb Pie?
You can use either fresh or thawed frozen pitted cherries for this pie. If using frozen cherries, I recommend allowing them to thaw for at least an hour at room temperature, as this will let excess juices escape and prevent a soggy filling.

How do I store Cherry Crumb Pie after baking?
Once the pie has cooled completely, cover it and store at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days, making sure to cover it well with plastic wrap or foil.

Can I freeze Cherry Crumb Pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze the pie for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What should I do if my streusel topping becomes too brown?
If the topping begins to brown too quickly while baking, it’s a good idea to shield it. You can use a pie crust shield or simply cover the edges with aluminum foil to protect them from over-browning until the pie is done baking.

Is this pie suitable for those with nut allergies?
Yes! The recipe does include almond extract for flavor, but it’s optional. You can simply replace it with more vanilla extract to keep the dish nut-free while still delivering delightful flavors.