red currant, nectarine & thyme crisps – a stadium-ready summer treat

August 5th, 2008 | Filed under: dessert, recipe, sides & bites | Tags: crisp, crumble, nectarines, oats, red currants, thyme, sports snacks
red currant, necatrine & thyme crisps

When you think about Healthy desserts to enjoy while watching a live sports game at the stadium, you might not imagine red currants and thyme. But hear me out — these crisps are a flavor-packed, portable, and refreshing alternative to the usual stadium sweets.

Red currants transform into something magical when baked. They taste just like candy—sticky, sweet, and bright red. Paired with juicy nectarines and accented with fresh thyme, they create a dessert that’s unexpected and perfect for hot days under the bleachers.

To balance the sweetness, I used fleur de sel in the crumble topping. That hint of salt brings out the fruit’s full range—from tart to jammy—and makes each bite as satisfying as a bag of stadium kettle corn (but better for you). If you bring these along in ramekins or jars, you’ll turn heads at your next ball game potluck or park tailgate.

These crisps pair well with a savory and refreshing side like steak & tofu lettuce wraps with bulgur salad — a balanced game day combo for both sweet and savory cravings.

Red Currant, Nectarine & Thyme Crisps

  • 6 oz. red currants, removed from stem
  • 2 nectarines, sliced
  • 1/2 cup natural cane sugar
  • 2 tbsp. whole wheat pastry flour
  • 1 tsp. fresh thyme leaves

Topping:

  • 1/4 cup whole wheat pastry flour
  • 1/4 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 stick butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/2 tsp. fleur de sel (or any coarse salt)

Preheat oven to 375°F and grease four ramekins or one small baking dish. Toss currants, nectarines, sugar, flour, and thyme. Divide the mixture among ramekins.

For the topping, blend flour, oats, brown sugar, butter, walnuts, and salt with a knife or your fingers until crumbly. Top the fruit mixture.

Place ramekins on a rimmed cookie sheet to avoid spillovers and bake for 35 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream.

These crisps are an excellent option if you’re planning snacks for a park hangout, outdoor concert, or just looking for a creative twist on traditional sports event dessert ideas. Small, satisfying, and spoon-ready, they’re made to be passed around under stadium lights.

More Game Day Inspirations

If you’re looking for a heartier dish, the pomegranate cherry braised pork brings bold flavor to your table. Pasta lovers will appreciate the elegant twist of pancetta, golden beet & gorgonzola pasta as a side or main dish. For something more casual, try Nicaraguan-style repochetas (quesadilla tacos) — perfect for sharing with friends at your next tailgate.

And yes, if you’re here for this recipe, check out the original post that inspired this write-up: Red Currant, Nectarine & Thyme Crisps.