Mixed Berry Crumble Recipe

Mixed berries: A combination of fresh or frozen berries like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the berry mixture.

Cornstarch: Thickens the berry filling to prevent it from being too runny.

All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the crumble topping.

Rolled oats: Adds texture and a slight nutty flavor to the topping.

Brown sugar: Provides sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor to the crumble.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create a crumbly texture in the topping.

When preparing the crumble topping, ensure the butter is very cold. This helps create a crumbly texture rather than a doughy one. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to incorporate the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This technique ensures a perfect, golden-brown topping that contrasts beautifully with the juicy berries.

• fresh or frozen mixed berries - Substitute with chopped apples and pears: Apples and pears provide a similar texture and sweetness, making them a good alternative to mixed berries.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness and a slight floral flavor that complements the fruit.

• cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder works similarly to cornstarch as a thickening agent and is often used in fruit fillings.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour adds a nutty flavor and is a gluten-free option for the crumble topping.

• rolled oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes provide a similar texture and are a good source of protein and fiber.

• packed brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and a caramel-like flavor that works well in crumble toppings.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a dairy-free alternative that adds a subtle coconut flavor and works well in crumble recipes.

• Allow the mixed berry crumble to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the topping soggy.

• For short-term storage, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. The crumble will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

• If you prefer individual servings, transfer portions into airtight containers before refrigerating. This makes it easier to reheat just the amount you need.

• To freeze, first ensure the crumble is completely cooled. Wrap the entire baking dish in a double layer of plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps protect against freezer burn.

• Alternatively, you can portion out the crumble into individual freezer-safe containers. Label each container with the date to keep track of freshness.

• The mixed berry crumble can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If reheating the entire dish, remove any plastic wrap and cover with aluminum foil to prevent the topping from burning. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

• For individual servings, you can use a microwave. Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

• If you want to refresh the crispness of the topping, you can place individual servings under the broiler for a minute or two after microwaving. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

• Enjoy your mixed berry crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover mixed berry crumble in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the topping from burning.
  4. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the berries are bubbly and the crumble is warmed through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the topping.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Transfer a portion of the crumble to a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through.
  4. Continue heating in 30-second intervals until the crumble is warmed through.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Place a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Add the leftover mixed berry crumble to the skillet.
  3. Cover with a lid to help retain moisture.
  4. Heat for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries are bubbly and the crumble is warmed through.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C).
  2. Place the crumble in an air fryer-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the topping from burning.
  4. Heat for about 8-10 minutes, or until the berries are bubbly and the crumble is warmed through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes to crisp up the topping.

• Oven: Preheats to 350°F (175°C) and bakes the crumble to perfection.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the mixed berries, granulated sugar, and cornstarch.

• Baking dish: Holds the berry mixture and crumble topping while baking.

• Another mixing bowl: Used to mix the flour, rolled oats, and brown sugar.

• Pastry cutter or fork: Helps to mix the cold butter into the dry ingredients until crumbly.

• Measuring cups: Measures out the ingredients accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Measures smaller quantities like the cornstarch.

• Spatula or spoon: Transfers the berry mixture to the baking dish and spreads the crumble topping evenly.

• Cooling rack: Allows the crumble to cool slightly before serving.

Use frozen berries: Save time by using frozen mixed berries instead of fresh ones. They are pre-washed and ready to use.

Pre-mix dry ingredients: Combine the flour, rolled oats, and brown sugar ahead of time and store in an airtight container.

Food processor for crumble: Use a food processor to quickly mix the cold butter into the dry ingredients for a perfect crumbly texture.

Single baking dish: Mix the berries, sugar, and cornstarch directly in the baking dish to reduce cleanup time.