Berry Crumble

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm berry crumble fresh from the oven. The combination of juicy, sweet-tart berries topped with a crunchy, buttery crumble is simply irresistible. This Berry Crumble recipe is not just easy to make, but it uses frozen mixed berries, making it a delightful dessert any time of the year. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, taking it to the next level of indulgence!

Why I Love This Recipe

This Berry Crumble has quickly become a favorite in my household for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can use any frozen mixed berries you have on hand, so it’s perfect for those days when you want to whip up a dessert without heading to the store. The bright colors and flavors of the berries make it a stunning dish to serve, especially when topped with a generous scoop of ice cream. Plus, there’s something so satisfying about the sound of the crumble bubbling away in the oven, filling the kitchen with a sweet aroma that beckons everyone to the table.

Gather These Ingredients

To make this delightful Berry Crumble, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 5 cups frozen unsweetened mixed berries
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• ¾ cup granulated white sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)

Hardware & Gadgets

Before you dive into making your Berry Crumble, gather the following kitchen tools:

• 9×13-inch baking dish – Perfect for baking and serving your crumble.
• Mixing bowls – You’ll need a couple for mixing the berry filling and the crumble topping.
• Whisk – Ideal for combining dry ingredients smoothly.
• Spatula – Great for folding ingredients and spreading the filling.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements lead to the best results!

Cook Berry Crumble Like This

Follow these simple steps to create your scrumptious Berry Crumble:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your crumble bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Berry Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen mixed berries, freshly squeezed lemon juice, granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Mix gently until the berries are well coated. The cornstarch will help thicken the juices as they cook, creating a delicious sauce.

Step 3: Assemble the Berry Filling

Grease your baking dish with the teaspoon of unsalted butter. Pour the berry mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

Step 4: Make the Crumble Topping

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This will create that delightful crumbly texture!

Step 5: Top the Berries

Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the mixed berries in the baking dish. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly even; the rustic look adds to the charm!

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the berry filling is bubbling around the edges.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once your Berry Crumble is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for the ultimate dessert experience!

Substitutions by Category

If you’re missing an ingredient or two, here are some substitutions you can make:

• Mixed Berries: You can use fresh berries if they’re in season or substitute with any single type of frozen berry like blueberries or raspberries.
• Sugar: Coconut sugar or honey can be used in place of granulated sugar, but adjust quantities to taste.
• Flour: For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Butter: Coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative works well for a vegan version.

Errors to Dodge

To ensure your Berry Crumble turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Don’t skip the cornstarch; it’s vital for thickening the berry juices.
• Avoid overmixing the crumble topping to keep it light and crumbly.
• Watch the baking time closely; every oven is different, and you want to avoid burning the topping.
• Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set a bit; this makes for easier serving.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

Want to prepare your Berry Crumble in advance? Here’s how:

• Assemble the berry filling and crumble topping separately, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
• You can also freeze the assembled crumble (before baking) for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven or microwave.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What if my crumble topping is too wet?

If your crumble topping is too wet, it may be due to too much butter or moisture in the mixture. Add a little more flour until you achieve a crumbly texture.

Can I use fresh berries instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh berries can be used, but you may need to adjust the sugar depending on their sweetness, and they will require less baking time.

Why is my crumble too soggy?

A soggy crumble usually results from not using enough cornstarch or baking it for too short a time. Make sure to follow the recipe closely and bake until bubbly!

How do I store leftover Berry Crumble?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Quick Weeknight Wins

If you’re looking for more quick dessert ideas to whip up on a busy weeknight, check out these links:

• Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Quick and Easy Banana Bread
• 5-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
• Vanilla Cupcakes

Bring It to the Table

Serving your Berry Crumble is just as important as making it. I love to present it straight from the oven, letting everyone scoop out their own portion. A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting on top of the warm crumble is truly a sight to behold. For added flair, serve with a sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar for that special touch.

As you gather around the table with friends and family, the warmth of the Berry Crumble and the joy of sharing delicious food create lasting memories. So, grab your baking dish, turn on that oven, and get ready to enjoy a delightful dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special occasion, this Berry Crumble is sure to be a hit. The combination of tart berries and sweet, crumbly topping is a classic that never disappoints. Happy baking!