Ingredients
Fruit Filling
- 5 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (16 grams)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams)
Topping
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (130 grams)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50 grams)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup buttermilk (60 ml)
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or canola)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional
- Sugar for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking dish or a 2-3 quart casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Combine cherries with flour and sugar: In the prepared baking dish, place the pitted and halved cherries. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons (16 grams) of flour and 3/4 cup (150 grams) of granulated sugar over the cherries. Stir gently to evenly coat the fruit; this helps thicken the filling as it bakes.
- Make the topping batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 cup (130 grams) of flour, 1/4 cup (50 grams) sugar, and baking powder until well combined. Add buttermilk, egg, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir until the batter is just moistened and smooth, being careful not to overmix for a tender topping.
- Assemble and bake: Using a tablespoon, drop dollops of the batter evenly over the cherry mixture. It will look rustic and uneven, which is perfect. Optionally, sprinkle a little sugar on top for extra crunch and sweetness. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherries are bubbling around the edges.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Serve warm on its own or topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Notes
- Use fresh cherries for best flavor; if unavailable, frozen cherries can be used but thaw and drain excess liquid before baking.
- The topping batter is dropped on top and will spread during baking, creating a rustic summit that’s delightfully tender.
- For enhanced flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or almond extract to the cherry mixture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated before serving.
- Make sure to grease the baking dish well to avoid sticking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American