Mixed berry crisp is one of those comforting desserts that brings a smile every time I make it. With just the right balance of sweet and tart, this dish highlights the delightful flavors of mixed berries. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this crisp is the perfect way to enjoy frozen berries when fresh ones are out of season.
What really sets this mixed berry crisp apart is the crunchy oat topping that contrasts beautifully with the juicy, bubbling berries beneath. It’s great for gatherings and can easily feed a crowd, plus it pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Why you’ll love mixed berry crisp
- Quick to prepare with just a few simple steps.
- Suitable for any season with frozen berries.
- Deliciously sweet and tart flavor profile.
- Easy to make ahead of time for gatherings.
- Perfectly pairs with ice cream or whipped cream.
What ingredients do I need for mixed berry crisp?
- 6 cups mixed frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (adjust based on berry sweetness)
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (fresh)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 0.75 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.75 cup brown sugar (packed)
- ½ cup cold butter (cubed)
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
Ingredient notes & swaps:
- Adjust the sugar depending on the sweetness of the berries used.
- You can substitute half the butter with coconut oil for a different flavor.
- For an allergen note, this recipe contains gluten and dairy.
How do I make mixed berry crisp step-by-step?
To make this mixed berry crisp, start by preparing the berries and topping separately, then combine them for baking. You’ll have a delicious dessert to savor in no time!
- Preheat your oven and prepare your baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the frozen berries with sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt until well coated.
- In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cubed cold butter and mix by hand until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the berry mixture.
- Bake until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Allow it to cool before serving, ideally with a scoop of ice cream.
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, add a teaspoon of almond extract to the berry mixture.
Visual doneness cues: Look for a golden brown topping, and the berries should be bubbling around the edges.
How should I serve it?
Serve warm, topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Drizzle with caramel sauce for an indulgent treat. For a fun twist, you could even serve it in individual ramekins for personal portions.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
Yes, you can make this crisp ahead of time! Store it covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven until warmed through. You can also freeze the unbaked crisp for up to 2 months; just bake it straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I fix common issues?
If your mixed berry crisp turns out dry, try adding a bit more fruit or reduce the baking time slightly. For a soggy bottom, make sure the cornstarch is well mixed with the berries to thicken the juices. If the topping is bland, consider adding a pinch more salt or cinnamon.
What variations can I try?
You can easily switch up the fruit; try adding apples or peaches for a different flavor profile. For more crunch, toss in some chopped nuts or seeds into the oat topping. You can also experiment with spices and add nutmeg or ginger for an autumn twist.
FAQs
Can I use fresh berries instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh berries work beautifully, just ensure they are ripe and sweet.
What if I don’t have cornstarch?
You can substitute it with all-purpose flour, though the texture will be slightly different.
Is it gluten-free?
To make this crisp gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
With this delicious mixed berry crisp, you’re set for a delightful dessert that’s easy and irresistible! Enjoy every bite!
Mixed Berry Crisp
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven and prepare your baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the frozen berries with sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt until well coated.
- In another bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cubed cold butter and mix by hand until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the berry mixture.
- Bake until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Allow it to cool before serving, ideally with a scoop of ice cream.