Heat oven to 350 degrees. For the topping mix the sugar flour and salt in a food processor, add butter. Process until crumbly. For filling mix cherries, sugar, flour and almond extract in a large bowl.
Place fruit mixture in a 10 inch pie pan or gratin dish. Crumble an even layer of topping over fruit. Bake until topping is golden and fruit is bubbly, about 40 mins. Serve warm or at room temperature with creme fraiche or whipped cream.