Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 8 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Quick Answer
This mixed berry crisp combines fresh or frozen berries with a crumbly oat topping, baked until golden and served warm with ice cream for a cozy dessert.
Autumn in New York City is such a magical time, isn’t it? The leaves are turning, and there’s a crispness in the air that reminds me of the comforting desserts we all crave during the holiday season. As I prepare for Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings, I can’t help but think of the ubiquitous mixed berry crisp. It’s the perfect blend of tart and sweet, with a crumble topping that begs to be served warm, preferably with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. It’s a dish that not only looks beautiful but tastes like a warm hug after a long day.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors makes it universally loved.
- The warm, crumbly topping paired with ice cream creates a delightful dessert experience.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients, perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Can be customized with different berries and added textures such as nuts.
- Leftovers are just as delicious, making it a great make-ahead option.
Ingredients
This mixed berry crisp features a delicious blend of fresh or frozen berries with a delightful crumble topping.
For the Berry Filling:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Crisp Topping:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Make Mixed Berry Crisp (Step-by-Step)
This recipe is a straightforward and satisfying way to combine berries and a crisp topping for an unforgettable dessert.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. There’s something so satisfying about the warm air washing over you as soon as you step into the kitchen.
Step 2: Prepare the Berry Filling
In a large bowl, combine the mixed berries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. As I mix, I can already smell the sweet-tart aroma that will soon fill my kitchen. If you’re using frozen berries, make sure to let them thaw slightly for even blending.
Step 3: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Pour this luscious mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish. I love how vibrant the berries look against the glass—nature’s little jewels all tightly packed together.
Step 4: Make the Crisp Topping
In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt until crumbly. The texture should remind you of sandy pebbles, with the melted butter adding a nutty aroma.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the berries. Pop it into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Keep an eye on it after the 30-minute mark—nothing beats the sight of bubbling juices peeking through a golden crust!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before diving in. The crisp will firm up a bit during this time. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if you desire—a classic pairing that elevates the experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Only One Type of Berry: Stick with a mix! The interplay of flavors makes a more complex and satisfying dessert.
- Overmixing the Topping: You want it crumbly, not a uniform batter. This helps create that delightful texture!
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the crisp to cool slightly helps the juices set, making it easier to serve.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Use Fresh, Seasonal Berries: If you can find local, seasonal berries, grab them! They’ll give you the most vibrant flavors and colors.
- Frozen Berries Work Too: Don’t worry if you can’t find fresh berries in winter; frozen berries can be just as delicious and convenient. Just remember not to thaw them fully before mixing.
- Personalize Your Topping: Feel free to add nuts or coconut flakes to the topping for an additional layer of flavor.
Variations
- Swap out mixed berries for a single type like blackberries or peaches.
- Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy twist.
- Use gluten-free flour in the topping for a gluten-free version.
How to Serve
- Serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with whipped cream for a lighter option.
- Enjoy it cold straight from the refrigerator as a delightful breakfast treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the berry filling and crisp topping separately and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or enjoy cold straight from the fridge.
- Freezing: The crisp can be frozen before baking; just assemble it and cover tightly. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
In preparing this mixed berry crisp, I became even more aware of how the right combination of flavors can evoke memories and create new ones. There’s something undeniably heartwarming about sharing this dish with friends and family during the holidays. It reminds me that dessert is not just about taste but about togetherness.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 9 servings · Serving Size: 1 square
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~200 calories · 3g protein · 30g carbs · 9g fat
Delicious Mixed Berry Crisp for Fall
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed berries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
- Pour this mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the berries. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving warm with ice cream.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use frozen berries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen berries work wonderfully in this mixed berry crisp. Just make sure not to thaw them fully before mixing to maintain the right texture.
How do I store leftover mixed berry crisp?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be reheated for breakfast or enjoyed cold—both options are delicious!
Can I add nuts to the crisp topping?
Absolutely! Feel free to personalize your topping by adding nuts or coconut flakes for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
