Cherry Crisp (Lichen Paleo, Loving AIP)
Introduction
Luscious, naturally sweet, and delightfully crumbly, this Cherry Crisp is everything a comforting dessert should be—and it just happens to be paleo and compliant with the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP). If you’re seeking a crowd-pleasing treat that’s free of grains, dairy, and refined sugar, this recipe delivers juicy cherries under a golden, nut-free topping, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or satisfying summer cravings.
Why This Cherry Crisp is Irresistibly Good
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Tart cherries bake down into a thick, jammy filling, while the coconut-based “crisp” bakes to golden perfection. Each bite bursts with fruity flavor and toasty notes, satisfying your dessert cravings without any grains, nuts, or eggs. This crisp is rich, but not heavy—perfect as a warm dessert for anyone following paleo or AIP lifestyles.
Prepping the Cherries and Filling
Start with pitted, fresh, or frozen cherries—no need to chop, but halving is helpful for bigger fruit. The Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper can make quick work of halving cherries if you’re batch-cooking or prepping for a party. Toss cherries with a squeeze of fresh lemon, a touch of coconut sugar (or date sugar for AIP), and a hint of tapioca starch for thickening. Let this mixture sit so the juices can start to release before baking.
The Perfect Paleo, Nut-Free Crisp Topping
Instead of traditional oats and nuts, this topping leans on shredded coconut, coconut flour, and a touch of cinnamon. Cold coconut oil helps achieve those signature crisp crumbs. Use a Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll to line your baking dish for easy serving and cleanup.
Cut the coconut oil into the dry mixture using a pastry blender or two forks. The result: golden, crunchy, and fragrant crisp that perfectly complements the tart cherries beneath.
AIP & Paleo Baking Made Easy
To ensure even baking and a beautiful, bubbling result, bake your crisp in an oven-safe skillet or baking dish. A Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet is a sturdy, classic choice that helps develop a caramelized crust on the fruit. After baking, allow the crisp to cool for 10-15 minutes to help the filling set—this makes serving much tidier!
Serving and Storage Suggestions
Spoon the Cherry Crisp warm into bowls and, if desired, serve with coconut yogurt or frozen coconut cream for a paleo and AIP-friendly “à la mode” effect. Leftovers will keep in an airtight Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers in the fridge for up to three days and are delicious cold or gently reheated.
Nutritional Information and Yields
This paleo, AIP cherry crisp recipe yields about 6 servings. Each serving is loaded with antioxidants from the cherries, naturally sweet, and lower in sugar than traditional crisps. It’s a delicious way to treat yourself while nourishing your body.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan or a Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet with a sheet of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for easy release and cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, combine pitted cherries, lemon juice, coconut sugar, and tapioca starch. Stir until the cherries are coated. Set aside while you prepare the topping.
- For the topping, stir together shredded coconut, coconut flour, coconut sugar, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of sea salt in a bowl.
- Add cold coconut oil and use a pastry blender, fork, or your fingertips to cut it into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
- Spread the cherry mixture evenly in the prepared pan. Sprinkle the crumbly topping over the fruit.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cherries are bubbling and the topping is lightly golden brown. If the edges brown too quickly, shield with foil.
- Cool for 10-15 minutes to let the filling set. Serve warm topped with coconut yogurt or a scoop of coconut cream if desired. Store leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers in the fridge for up to three days.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Cherry Crisp Recap
This Cherry Crisp is a naturally sweet, grain-free, and nut-free dessert that’s both easy and impressive. Whether you’re following a paleo or AIP regimen—or simply want a vibrant seasonal treat—it’s bound to become a new favorite. Enjoy the contrast of juicy cherries and a golden, crumbly topping, made easier with simple tools and wholesome ingredients.
