Fresh, in-season berries always make the best crumble, but we always keep a bag of fruit in the freezer to have the taste of summer any time of year.
Both options will taste great with this recipe from our book “Cook What You Have,” which draws on pantry staples to assemble easy, weeknight meals.
It calls for frozen berries tossed and topped with a spiced crumble with oats and almonds, but an equal quantity of fresh mixed berries will be just as tasty, if not more so.
The mixture of oats, cardamom, ground coriander and brown sugar does double duty here. We add a small amount to the berries to sweeten and thicken the filling; into the remainder we add sliced almonds and softened butter to make a crumble topping that bakes up toasty and crisp, a delicious flavor and textural contrast to the soft, juicy berries.
The beauty of using fresh, in-season berries for this crumble recipe lies in their vibrant flavors and natural sweetness.
When berries are at their peak, their juices burst with a delightful tanginess that infuses the crumble with an irresistible taste.
However, we understand that it’s not always possible to find fresh berries all year round. That’s why we recommend keeping a bag of frozen fruit in your freezer. This way, you can enjoy the lusciousness of summer berries no matter the season.
Our recipe, featured in the renowned cookbook “Cook What You Have,” is designed to be convenient and accessible for everyday cooking.
By utilizing pantry staples, we’ve created a quick and easy weeknight meal that will satisfy your cravings for a delectable dessert. The recipe calls for tossing the frozen berries with a spiced crumble mixture, consisting of oats, almonds, cardamom, ground coriander, and brown sugar.
This combination not only adds a touch of sweetness to the berries but also helps thicken the filling, creating a luscious, jam-like texture.
The remaining crumble mixture is then transformed into a tantalizing topping. By incorporating sliced almonds and softened butter, we achieve a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
As the crumble bakes in the oven, the almonds become toasty and fragrant, while the butter creates a crisp and golden crust. When paired with the soft, juicy berries, this combination creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Whether you opt for fresh, in-season berries or rely on the convenience of frozen fruit, our berry crumble recipe promises to deliver a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer.
So, go ahead and indulge in this irresistible treat, savoring the burst of flavors and the comforting warmth that each bite brings.
For the perfect texture, use quick-cooking oats in this recipe as old-fashioned oats will be too firm and chewy. This crumble is best served warm or at room temperature and pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
To create this delicious mixed berry crumble, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground coriander
- 1-pound bag of frozen mixed berries (about 4 cups), not thawed
- 1 1/2 cups of sliced almonds or 1 cup of slivered almonds
- 1/4 teaspoon of table salt
The delectable combination of mixed berries, spiced oats, and crunchy almonds creates a scrumptious Mixed Berry Crumble that is sure to please even the most discerning dessert connoisseur. This delightful treat can be made in a mere hour, with just 20 minutes of active preparation time, making it a convenient option for those who crave a homemade dessert but are short on time.
These aromatic spices add a unique depth of flavor to the crumble, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Next, reach for a one-pound bag of frozen mixed berries, ensuring they are not thawed before use. The frozen berries will maintain their integrity while baking, culminating in a burst of fruity goodness with each bite. In addition, 1½ cups of sliced almonds or 1 cup of slivered almonds contribute a satisfying crunch and nutty essence to the dish. Finally, a pinch of table salt adds a balancing touch to enhance the overall flavor profile. Preparing this delightful mixed berry crumble involves a straightforward process. Begin by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C), allowing it to reach the desired temperature while the ingredients are being combined.
In a large bowl, stir together the oats, brown sugar, cardamom, coriander, and salt until they are thoroughly blended. It is important to ensure that the brown sugar is packed tightly, as this adds moisture and sweetness to the dish.
Once these dry ingredients are well-combined, it is time to incorporate the frozen mixed berries. Gently fold them into the mixture, being cautious not to break them apart too much, as the whole berries will add a pleasing texture to the crumble.
Transfer this delectable mixture into a baking dish of your choice, spreading it evenly to ensure even cooking. Sprinkle the sliced or slivered almonds over the top, allowing them to form an irresistible crust.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 to 45 minutes, or until the crumble is golden brown and bubbling with sweet berry goodness.
During this time, the berries will release their natural juices, creating a luscious, jam-like consistency that will cling to the oats and almonds. When the aroma of baked berries and spices begins to permeate your kitchen, it is a good indication that the crumble is nearing completion.
Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes, as the filling will be extremely hot. This brief interlude also allows the juices to thicken slightly, providing a balanced textural contrast to the crunchy topping.
Once the crumble has cooled slightly, it is ready to be served. This versatile dessert can be enjoyed on its own, but is equally delightful when paired with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
The contrasting temperatures and flavors marry harmoniously, creating a dessert experience that is truly extraordinary. With its vibrant colors, enticing aroma, and unforgettable taste, Mixed Berry Crumble with Spiced Oats and Almonds is a dessert that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on all who have the pleasure of indulging in its irresistible allure.
This gratifying dessert can be served warm or at room temperature, greatly enhancing its luscious appeal.