There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm dessert bubbling away in the oven, filling the kitchen with the sweet aroma of baked fruit and toasted nuts. The mixed berry crisp with almonds is one such dessert that not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also provides a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. My family and I recently had the pleasure of indulging in this scrumptious treat, and I must say, it was a hit! The combination of juicy berries and crunchy almond topping was simply irresistible. It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together, with its inviting aroma acting as a homing beacon for anyone within sniffing distance. As we dug into the first bite, the warm, gooey berries paired perfectly with the crisp topping, creating a moment of pure bliss. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a special occasion, this dessert is sure to leave a lasting impression on everyone who tries it.
Ingredients
To create this delightful mixed berry crisp with almonds, you’ll need a selection of fresh, ripe berries and a few pantry staples. The ingredients come together to form a harmonious balance of flavors that are both refreshing and satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- 1 cup fresh blackberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
The preparation of this mixed berry crisp with almonds is straightforward and rewarding. Even if you’re not an experienced baker, you can easily whip up this dessert with confidence. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this mouthwatering treat:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. Add the granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Gently toss the ingredients until the berries are evenly coated. Pour the berry mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- In another mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, sliced almonds, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture forms a crumbly texture.
- Evenly sprinkle the oat and almond mixture over the berry filling in the baking dish. Ensure that the topping covers the berries completely.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the berry filling is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. The dessert can be served warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
This delectable dessert is not only a treat for the taste buds but also comes with nutritional benefits, thanks to the fresh berries and nuts. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition facts, ensuring you can enjoy it with peace of mind:
- Servings: 8
- Calories per serving: 320
Preparation Time
One of the great things about this mixed berry crisp is its quick and simple preparation. From start to finish, you can have this dessert ready in just about an hour. Here’s a breakdown of the time needed:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour
How to Serve
This dessert is versatile and can be served in various ways, making it perfect for different occasions. Here are some ideas on how to present and enjoy your mixed berry crisp with almonds:
- As is: Enjoy it straight from the oven, allowing the natural flavors of the berries to shine.
- With ice cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.
- With whipped cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for a light and airy addition.
- Yogurt parfait: Layer the crisp with Greek yogurt for a delightful breakfast option.
- Almond garnish: Sprinkle extra sliced almonds on top before serving for added crunch.
Additional Tips
To make the most out of your mixed berry crisp with almonds, consider these additional tips that can enhance your baking experience and the final result:
- Use fresh berries: While frozen berries can be used in a pinch, fresh berries provide the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust sweetness: Depending on the ripeness of your berries, you may want to adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste.
- Experiment with nuts: If almonds aren’t your favorite, try using pecans or walnuts for a different flavor profile.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative to cater to dietary restrictions.
- Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
FAQ Section
The mixed berry crisp with almonds is a popular dessert, and naturally, there are some common questions that arise. Here are some frequently asked questions along with their answers:
- Can I use frozen berries?
Yes, you can use frozen berries if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess moisture in the crisp. - Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the berry filling and the topping separately, then assemble and bake just before serving. - What other fruits can I use?
This recipe is versatile, so feel free to experiment with other fruits like peaches, apples, or pears for a unique twist. - How can I make this dessert vegan?
For a vegan version, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. - What can I do if my topping is too dry?
If the topping seems dry, add a little more melted butter or a splash of almond milk to achieve the desired consistency.