Name: Strawberry Crisp
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds strawberries (chopped); 1 teaspoon orange zest; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons white sugar; 4 tablespoons cornstarch; 1/2 cup butter (cut into cubes); 3/4 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 cup light brown sugar; 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt

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There’s something truly special about a warm, comforting dessert like Strawberry Crisp. I remember the first time I enjoyed this delightful treat; it was during a sunny spring afternoon at a friend’s house. The smell of fresh strawberries filled the air, and as we gathered around the table, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia. Each scoop of that crisp topping, perfectly golden and buttery, paired with sweet, juicy strawberries made my heart sing. It’s a dessert that evokes memories of laughter and good times shared with loved ones. Every time I make Strawberry Crisp, I’m transported back to that moment, and it reminds me of the importance of enjoying the simple pleasures in life.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
40 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Wooden Spoon, Blender, Baking Sheet, Skillet, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife

What Sets This Strawberry Crisp Apart

Seasonal Freshness

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how it takes advantage of seasonal produce. Using fresh, ripe strawberries makes all the difference. Their sweetness shines through, creating a beautiful contrast with the crisp topping.

Easy to Make

Even if you’re not a baking pro, Strawberry Crisp is incredibly easy to whip up. From start to finish, it’s a straightforward process that anyone can follow. You don’t need fancy equipment or skills, just a love for good food.

Versatile Delight

This dish is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it warm, served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat, or let it cool and pack it for a picnic. The choice is yours!

Sharing Joy

There’s something magical about sharing Strawberry Crisp with family and friends. It makes gatherings feel special and sparks conversations around the table. It’s a dish that brings people together.

Customizable Ingredients

While strawberries are the star, you can also experiment with other fruits like blueberries or peaches. This flexibility means you can create a unique version that fits your tastes.

Shopping List for Strawberry Crisp

When it comes to making Strawberry Crisp, the ingredients are simple yet effective. The combination of fresh strawberries, oats, sugar, and butter creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. Each ingredient plays a key role in crafting this delicious dessert.

1 1/2 pounds strawberries, chopped – These juicy fruits are the foundation of the crisp, providing sweetness and moisture.
1 teaspoon orange zest – This adds a subtle citrus note that brightens the flavor profile.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A classic addition that enhances the sweetness of the strawberries.
3 tablespoons white sugar – This helps to sweeten the strawberries and balance the tartness.
4 tablespoons cornstarch – This thickens the strawberry filling, ensuring a perfect consistency.
1/2 cup butter, cut into cubes – The butter adds richness and helps to achieve a deliciously crumbly topping.
3/4 cup rolled oats – They provide texture and a wholesome flavor to the crisp topping.
1/4 cup sugar – A little more sweetness for the topping helps create a caramelized crust.
1/2 cup light brown sugar – This adds a deeper, molasses flavor that complements the other ingredients.
3/4 cup all-purpose flour – Essential for binding the topping together.
1 teaspoon cinnamon – A warm spice that enhances the overall flavor.
1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances and enhances all the flavors.

Making This Strawberry Crisp

Creating Strawberry Crisp is a delightful experience. The process is simple, and the aroma that fills your kitchen is unforgettable. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to craft this sweet treat!

Preheat your oven to 190C (375F). This ensures your crisp bakes evenly and gets that wonderful golden color.
In a large bowl, combine the chopped strawberries, orange zest, vanilla extract, white sugar, and cornstarch. Stir well, making sure the strawberries are completely coated. You want to see a nice mixture forming at the bottom of the bowl with the strawberries.
Pour the strawberry filling into a 9-inch cast iron skillet or a baking dish. Ensure it’s spread evenly for uniform cooking.
In a separate bowl, combine the butter cubes, rolled oats, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and all-purpose flour. Using a pastry blender or fork, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Look for a consistency that holds together when squeezed but crumbles when you let it go.
Spread this crisp topping mixture evenly over the strawberry filling. Make sure to cover all the strawberries so they’re not exposed, which helps avoid burning.
Bake in your preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on it toward the end!
Once baked, remove the strawberry crisp from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Things Worth Knowing

Use fresh strawberries: For the best flavor, always opt for fresh, ripe strawberries. Frozen ones can work in a pinch but may alter the texture.
Don’t skip the cornstarch: It’s crucial for thickening the filling, ensuring that it doesn’t turn too watery.
Watch the baking time: Ovens vary, so check your strawberry crisp a few minutes before the minimum time. You want that perfect golden crisp!
Cool before serving: Allowing the crisp to rest helps the filling firm up, making it easier to serve.

Variations to Try

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to customize your Strawberry Crisp. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

Mix fruits: Try adding blueberries or peaches for a different flavor profile.
Use less sugar: If you’re watching your sugar intake, feel free to reduce the sugar in the filling.
Add nuts: For some crunch, mix in walnuts or almonds into the topping.
Spice it up: A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of ginger can elevate the flavor even further.
Gluten-free option: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Serving suggestions: Serve it warm with a scoop of your favorite ice cream for an indulgent treat!

Best Served With

There are so many delightful ways to serve Strawberry Crisp. Here are some of my favorite ideas:

Ice Cream: A classic pairing; vanilla or strawberry ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the warm crisp.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the dessert’s flavors and adds a lightness.
Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh berries to complement the strawberry filling.
Tea or Coffee: It makes a lovely afternoon treat with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
Picnics: Pack it for a picnic, and enjoy it cold or at room temperature; it travels well!
Seasonal Gatherings: This dessert is perfect for spring gatherings, garden parties, or even holiday meals.

FAQ

Strawberry Crisp is a delightful dessert made with fresh strawberries, topped with a crumbly mixture of oats, sugar, and butter, baked until golden brown. It’s a comforting treat that pairs perfectly with ice cream or whipped cream, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion.

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries in Strawberry Crisp. However, keep in mind that frozen strawberries can release more liquid during baking, which may affect the crisp’s texture. To counter this, you might want to add a bit more cornstarch to thicken the filling.

Leftover Strawberry Crisp should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 5 to 6 days for optimal freshness. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to six months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating!

Strawberry Crisp is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries on the side also enhance the overall experience and add a pop of color!

Conclusion

The beauty of Strawberry Crisp lies in its simplicity and the way it brings people together. This dessert not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also creates lasting memories around the table. I encourage you to try making this delightful dish yourself! It’s sure to become a family favorite, filled with love and flavor.