Blueberry crumble is a beloved dessert that combines sweet, juicy blueberries with a buttery, crumbly topping. It’s a perfect treat for anyone with a sweet tooth and is often enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The dish originates from England, where crumbles are a traditional way of making fruit-based desserts. The beauty of blueberry crumble lies in its simplicity, offering a delicious balance of sweetness, tartness, and texture. Its popularity has spread far and wide, thanks to its ease of preparation and comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic blueberry crumble:
For the filling:
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4 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon cornstarch
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the crumble topping:
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup rolled oats
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1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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A pinch of salt
Substitutions:
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Dairy-free: Use dairy-free butter or coconut oil in place of regular butter.
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Gluten-free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.
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Vegan: Substitute the butter with a plant-based butter and use maple syrup in place of granulated sugar.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish (approximately 8×8 inches) with butter or cooking spray.
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Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blueberries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Stir gently to mix the ingredients without crushing the berries.
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Make the crumble topping: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Assemble the crumble: Pour the blueberry mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the berries, covering the filling completely.
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Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
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Cool and serve: Allow the crumble to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help the filling set slightly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
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Overmixing the crumble topping: Avoid overworking the butter into the dry ingredients, as this will result in a dense topping.
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Using too much sugar: Adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of your blueberries. Over-sweetening can make the dish too sugary.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Chill the butter: For a flakier topping, make sure the butter is very cold before incorporating it into the dry ingredients.
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Layer flavors: Add a touch of ground ginger or nutmeg to the crumble topping for an extra layer of flavor.
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Serve it warm: Blueberry crumble is best served warm, straight from the oven, with a side of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream.
Variations and Customizations
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Add nuts: For a crunchy variation, include chopped nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts in the crumble topping.
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Seasonal berries: You can replace the blueberries with other berries like raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries, or even a mix of them.
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Low-carb version: Use almond flour or coconut flour for the crumble topping and a low-carb sweetener like stevia or erythritol.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve the blueberry crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
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Pair it with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon snack.
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For a healthier option, try topping it with a dollop of Greek yogurt for some creaminess and a protein boost.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
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Calories: 250
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Protein: 2g
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Carbs: 40g
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Fats: 12g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 18g
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just be sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid to avoid a soggy filling.
How do I store leftover blueberry crumble?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave in short intervals.
Can I make blueberry crumble ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and topping separately and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply assemble and bake as directed.
Closing Thoughts
Blueberry crumble is the ultimate comfort food, combining the natural sweetness of fresh berries with a perfectly crisp topping. It’s simple to make, adaptable, and sure to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner. Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoy it on its own, this dessert is a delicious treat that will never go out of style.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Feel free to share your experience, ask any questions, or get creative with your own variations.
