This strawberry crumble is the epitome of comfort in a dessert. The combination of juicy, sweet strawberries with a golden, buttery crumble topping creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Served warm, it’s the ideal treat to enjoy with family and friends.
The best part of this dish is how simple it is to make. Just a handful of ingredients, a bit of time in the oven, and you have a dessert that feels like a cozy hug. Whether you top it with vanilla ice cream or enjoy it as is, this strawberry crumble is sure to be a hit!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
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1/4 cup sugar
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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1/2 cup rolled oats
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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1/3 cup brown sugar
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a mixing bowl, toss the strawberries with sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Transfer to a baking dish and set aside.
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In a separate bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Add the cubed butter and rub it into the dry ingredients using your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the strawberries.
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Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
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Let cool slightly before serving. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
A Brief History of Crumble Desserts
Crumble desserts have a rich history, with origins dating back to World War II in Britain. During times of rationing, when ingredients like butter and sugar were scarce, the crumble was born as a way to make do with what was available. Traditionally, crumbles were made with whatever fruit was in season, whether that was apples, pears, or berries, combined with a simple crumble topping made of flour, sugar, and butter.
While the origin of the strawberry crumble isn’t as widely documented, it is clear that it is an evolution of the classic crumble, taking advantage of the sweetness and acidity of strawberries. These berries provide a perfect base for the crumble’s rich, buttery topping. Strawberries, with their bright red color and tangy sweetness, are a favorite among bakers and dessert enthusiasts alike.
Why Strawberry Crumble is a Favorite Dessert
What makes strawberry crumble stand out is its simplicity. Unlike other more complex desserts, a crumble is a no-fuss, easy-to-make option that requires few ingredients. Yet, it manages to deliver a rich, deeply satisfying flavor and texture. The crisp topping gives a delightful contrast to the soft, juicy strawberries beneath it, making each bite a harmonious blend of textures.
Strawberry crumble is versatile too. You can enjoy it on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a splash of custard. The warm fruit filling and the crumbly top are comforting, especially when served fresh from the oven. It’s the ideal dessert to bring to a summer picnic, a potluck dinner, or a family gathering.
The Joy of Baking Strawberry Crumble
Baking a strawberry crumble is a rewarding experience. The process is straightforward, yet it fills your kitchen with the most amazing aroma. As the crumble bakes, the sweet strawberries release their juices, blending with the sugar and spices, creating a tantalizing fragrance. Meanwhile, the crumble topping turns golden and crisp in the oven, forming a perfect contrast to the soft fruit beneath.
There’s something about the simplicity of this dessert that makes it so satisfying. It’s not just the ease of preparation but also the joy of creating something from scratch that brings warmth and happiness to those who enjoy it. Whether you’re baking with loved ones or making it alone, strawberry crumble offers a chance to slow down and savor the moment.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about strawberry crumble is its adaptability. While the classic version calls for just strawberries, you can easily switch up the fruit to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Adding rhubarb to the strawberry filling is a common variation, as the tartness of rhubarb balances out the sweetness of the strawberries. You could also mix in other berries, like raspberries or blueberries, to create a mixed berry crumble.
For those looking to make the crumble more indulgent, consider adding a layer of chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or even a bit of cinnamon to the crumble topping. These additions can elevate the flavor and add a delightful twist to the classic recipe. You could also experiment with using almond flour or oats to create a gluten-free crumble topping, which would cater to those with dietary restrictions while still delivering on flavor.
Perfecting the Strawberry Crumble: Tips and Tricks
To ensure your strawberry crumble turns out perfect every time, there are a few tips you can follow. First, be sure to use fresh, ripe strawberries. The quality of your fruit directly impacts the flavor of the filling, so choose strawberries that are sweet and juicy. If you have access to locally grown strawberries, even better! They will provide the best taste and texture for this dessert.
When preparing the crumble topping, make sure to work the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs. This will give the crumble its signature texture. You can also experiment with different types of sugar—brown sugar will give the topping a deeper, caramelized flavor, while white sugar will produce a lighter, crisper result.
If you prefer a more tart filling, you can reduce the amount of sugar you use with the strawberries. The beauty of this dessert is that it’s flexible, allowing you to adjust the sweetness based on your preferences.
Serving Strawberry Crumble
Strawberry crumble is best served warm, straight out of the oven, but it can also be enjoyed at room temperature. To serve, scoop a generous portion into bowls and top it with your favorite accompaniment. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is always a popular choice, as the cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, gooey fruit and crispy topping. If you prefer something lighter, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of custard will do the trick.
Strawberry crumble also makes a great breakfast treat or brunch option. The oats and fruit make it slightly more wholesome, so you can enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or tea. It’s not just a dessert—it’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed throughout the day.
Strawberry Crumble: The Ideal Dessert for Every Season
While strawberry crumble is typically associated with the summer months, it’s a dessert that can be enjoyed year-round. In the summer, when strawberries are in season and at their peak flavor, this crumble is a no-brainer. However, when strawberries are out of season, frozen strawberries can be used as a substitute, and you can still create a delicious crumble.
In the fall and winter months, you can adapt this recipe by using different fruits such as apples, pears, or even peaches. The crumble topping remains the same, but the fruit filling can be adjusted to match the flavors of the season. This means that no matter the time of year, you can always enjoy the comforting flavors of a fruit crumble.
Conclusion: Why You Should Make Strawberry Crumble Today
Strawberry crumble is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and the joy of baking. With its rich history, ease of preparation, and endless possibilities for customization, it’s no wonder that it’s a beloved treat for so many. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy at home, strawberry crumble is guaranteed to bring warmth and happiness to any meal.
So, next time you have a craving for something sweet, why not try your hand at this delightful dessert? With fresh strawberries, a buttery crumble topping, and the perfect balance of textures, strawberry crumble is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.