Homemade Mixed Berry Crumble is like summer in a dish, bursting with juicy berries and topped with a crisp, buttery crumble. It's perfect for those moments when you need a simple, yet satisfying dessert that feels like a warm hug on a cool evening.
Raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries form the trifecta of flavor here, providing a sweet-tart burst in every bite. The combination is not only visually appealing but also a perfect balance of flavors. Sugar helps to enhance the natural sweetness of the berries while compensating for any tartness. A bit of flour is mixed in with the berries to thicken the juices as the crumble bakes, ensuring you get a luscious filling rather than a runny mess.
The lemon juice adds a touch of acidity, brightening the flavors and balancing the sweetness. For the topping, all-purpose flour and rolled oats come together to create a hearty, crumbly texture. Brown sugar contributes a caramel-like depth, while unsalted butter binds everything, creating that irresistible crunchy topping. A pinch of salt is essential here; it enhances all the flavors, making the sweet even sweeter and the buttery even more delicious.
This crumble is heavenly on its own, but for an extra treat, serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of warm custard can also complement the crumble beautifully.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch baking dish. This little bit of prep ensures your crumble will bake evenly and won't stick to the dish.
In a large bowl, gently mix together your raspberries, blueberries, and halved strawberries with sugar, flour, and lemon juice. Be gentle here; you want to keep the berries mostly intact. Once mixed, transfer them to your prepared baking dish, spreading them out to cover the base evenly.
In another bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt. Add your chilled, cubed butter, and use your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This hands-on step is where the magic happens — it’s what gives you that perfect crumbly topping.
Sprinkle this crumble mixture evenly over the berries. Make sure every bit of berry is covered — this will ensure a nice, even bake. Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’re looking for a golden topping and bubbling fruit — that’s your cue it’s ready.
Once out of the oven, let it cool for at least 10 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier. Plus, it prevents any eager taste testers from burning their tongues!