Homemade Strawberry Crumble Recipe

Ingredients

Fresh Strawberries

  • Fresh strawberries are the star ingredient of our homemade strawberry crumble recipe.
  • The sweet and juicy flavor they add to the dish makes it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
  • When selecting fresh strawberries, look for those that are plump and have a vibrant red color.
  • Avoid choosing strawberries with green or white spots, as these may be signs of spoilage.

Choosing the Right Type of Strawberries

  • There are several types of strawberries to choose from, but for baking purposes, we recommend using sweet and firm varieties like Camarosa or Albion.
  • Sweet strawberries have a higher sugar content, which will help balance out the flavors in your crumble.

Storing Fresh Strawberries

  • Keep fresh strawberries at room temperature until you’re ready to use them.
  • You can store them in an open container or a paper bag, but avoid sealing it tightly as this may cause moisture buildup and lead to spoilage.
  • Refrigerate the remaining strawberries after washing and hulling them, making sure they are dry before storing.

Using Fresh Strawberries in Your Crumble Recipe

  • You’ll need about 2 cups of fresh strawberries for our homemade strawberry crumble recipe.
  • Rinse the strawberries gently under cold water, pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towels, and hull them to remove the leaves and stems.
  • Place the sliced strawberries in a bowl and set aside until you’re ready to assemble your crumble.

Tips for Using Fresh Strawberries

  • To avoid over-mixing the strawberry mixture, gently fold the sliced strawberries into the sugar mixture.
  • Avoid over-pressing the strawberries with a spoon or masher, as this can release too much juice and make the filling too runny.

2 cups of sliced strawberries

To make this delicious homemade strawberry crumble recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • For the Filling
  • Sliced Strawberries

You will need about 2 cups of sliced strawberries for this recipe.
To slice the strawberries, simply place them in a bowl and cut them into thin pieces using a sharp knife.
Make sure to remove any stems or leaves from the strawberries before slicing them.

It’s best to use fresh strawberries for this recipe, as they will have better flavor and texture. You can also use frozen strawberries if you don’t have access to fresh ones.

Choose sweet and ripe strawberries for the best flavor

The key to creating an exceptional homemade strawberry crumble lies in selecting high-quality ingredients, particularly when it comes to the strawberries themselves.

To achieve the best flavor, it’s essential to choose sweet and ripe strawberries for this recipe.

When picking out strawberries at your local market or grocery store, look for berries that are plump, firm, and have a vibrant red color.

Avoid selecting strawberries that are overly soft or have white mold on them, as they may be past their prime and won’t contribute to the best flavor in your crumble.

Sweet strawberries will naturally caramelize during the baking process, creating a rich and intense sweetness that balances out the tartness of the other ingredients.

This is especially important when making a strawberry crumble, as the sweetness of the strawberries will be the primary focus of the dessert.

Not only do sweet strawberries provide the best flavor, but they also offer a burst of juicy freshness to each bite, adding texture and depth to the dish.

By selecting the freshest and highest-quality strawberries available, you’ll be able to create a homemade strawberry crumble that’s truly unforgettable and will impress even the most discerning palates.

Dry Ingredients

The success of any dessert, including a homemade strawberry crumble recipe, heavily relies on the quality and proportions of its ingredients.

Dry ingredients are crucial in achieving the perfect texture and flavor balance in this dessert.

The main dry ingredients used in this recipe include:

Flour

This serves as the base for the crumble mixture, providing structure and helping to bind other dry ingredients together. All-purpose flour is a suitable option here.

Brown sugar

Adding natural sweetness without refined sugars, brown sugar also enhances the flavor of the overall dessert.

Granulated sugar

A touch of granulated sugar complements the sweetness from brown sugar and balances out flavors.

Oatmeal

Contributing to a nutty texture, oatmeal is essential for creating the crumbly top layer.

Ground cinnamon

Adding warmth and depth to the recipe, ground cinnamon complements strawberry flavors and provides an aromatic touch.

Powdered ginger

Enhancing flavors subtly, powdered ginger adds a hint of spice that pairs well with strawberries.

Salt

Balancing sweetness with a pinch of salt enhances the overall taste experience.

When combining dry ingredients, it’s essential to mix them evenly before adding other components to ensure an even distribution of flavors and textures in the final dessert.

1/2 cup all purpose flour

  • The first ingredient we’ll be using for this homemade strawberry crumble recipe is all-purpose flour.
  • All-purpose flour, also known as refined flour, is a type of wheat flour that has been processed to remove the bran and germ from the grain.
  • This process results in a finer texture and a neutral flavor that makes it an ideal base for baked goods like our strawberry crumble.
  • All-purpose flour contains carbohydrates, protein, fiber, and a small amount of fat.
  • When we use all-purpose flour in our recipe, it helps to thicken the filling and add structure to the topping.
  • We’ll be using 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour in total, so let’s take a look at how that translates into grams.

To convert cups to grams, we can use the following rough estimate:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour ≈ 120-125 grams
  • So for our recipe, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour would be approximately 60-62.5 grams.

1/4 cup rolled oats

The ingredient “1/4 cup rolled oats” plays a crucial role in the preparation of our homemade strawberry crumble recipe. Rolled oats are a type of oat that has been steamed and then rolled into flakes, making them easier to digest and incorporate into baked goods.

In this recipe, the 1/4 cup measure of rolled oats is used as one of the key components in the topping mixture for our strawberry crumble. This quantity ensures that the oats will not overpower the other ingredients, but rather complement their flavors and textures.

Using rolled oats also helps to add a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor to the crumble topping. Unlike steel-cut oats, which have a coarser texture and can be slightly more dense, rolled oats are finer and lighter, making them an ideal choice for baked goods that require a delicate balance of textures.

It’s worth noting that you can also use old-fashioned oats or quick-cooking oats as substitutes in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture and cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of oat you choose to use.

In addition to their textural benefits, rolled oats are also a good source of fiber and other nutrients like iron and potassium. This makes them a nutritious and wholesome choice for our homemade strawberry crumble recipe.

Overall, the 1/4 cup measure of rolled oats is an essential ingredient in our strawberry crumble topping mixture. Its unique texture, nutty flavor, and nutritional benefits all contribute to the success of this delicious dessert recipe.

1/4 cup brown sugar

The ingredient list for this delicious Homemade Strawberry Crumble recipe is quite straightforward, with a focus on using fresh and high-quality components to bring out the best flavors in your dessert.

Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

  • 4 cups Fresh Strawberries, hulled and sliced into 1/2-inch pieces. Fresh strawberries will provide a burst of flavor and sweetness to your crumble, so make sure to choose ripe ones.
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar. This adds a depth of flavor and helps balance out the tartness from the strawberries. You can also use turbinado or muscovado sugar if you prefer.
  • 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar, used in conjunction with brown sugar to add sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.
  • 1/4 cup All-purpose Flour. This provides a light, delicate texture to your crumble topping.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder, which helps give the crumble its signature crunch and lightness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt, used to bring out the flavors in the strawberries and add a touch of savory depth.
  • 1/2 cup Cold Unsalted Butter, cut into small pieces. This is what will create the crumbly, crunchy texture on top of your strawberry filling.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (optional). If you’re a cinnamon lover, feel free to add this in for an extra boost of flavor and warmth.
  • Vanilla Ice Cream or Whipped Cream (for serving), which is the perfect accompaniment to your fresh strawberry crumble.

Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to start mixing and preparing your homemade strawberry crumble. Let’s begin by combining the sliced strawberries with sugar and flour in a large bowl, then set aside to allow them to macerate for about 15 minutes while you work on the topping.

Instructions

Precrumb Preparation

In the art of culinary preparation, precrumb preparation is a crucial step that sets the stage for a delightful homemade strawberry crumble recipe.

This process involves carefully preparing the ingredients and tools needed to create the perfect crumble topping, which will provide the crunchy texture and sweet flavor that complements the juicy strawberries beneath.

Here’s a breakdown of the essential steps involved in precrumb preparation:

Selecting the Right Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cold unsalted butter, and sea salt. Ensure that your ingredients are fresh and of high quality to yield the best results.

Measuring Dry Ingredients

Weigh or measure out the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and granulated sugar according to the recipe’s specifications. A digital kitchen scale will provide more accurate measurements.

Transfer the dry ingredients to a clean mixing bowl for easy access during the assembly process.

Preparing the Cutting Board

Clear a dedicated cutting board and utensils to handle the cold butter, ensuring that no cross-contamination occurs between sweet and savory components. You may want to use separate boards for dry ingredients and fat-based items.

Cutting Butter

Remove the unsalted butter from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before beginning. This allows the butter to reach a comfortable working temperature, making it easier to cut into small pieces without causing excessive melting.

Mixing and Combining Ingredients

Once you’ve completed measuring and cutting all the necessary ingredients, combine them in a separate mixing bowl for even distribution and thorough blending. Be mindful of achieving an even crumb texture by manipulating the butter and sugar until it resembles coarse crumbs.

This meticulous approach to precrumb preparation lays the groundwork for a superior homemade strawberry crumble that’s sure to impress your loved ones with its delightful flavors, crunchy textures, and tender fruit filling. By investing time in these essential steps, you’ll create an unforgettable dessert experience that showcases your dedication to culinary excellence.

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)

To begin making this delicious Homemade Strawberry Crumble Recipe, it’s crucial to start with a well-prepared baking environment. The first instruction is to preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature setting will ensure that your crumble topping cooks evenly and at the right pace, while preventing any potential under or overcooking of the filling.

Preheating the oven involves turning it on to the desired temperature and allowing it to reach its maximum heat level before adding food for baking. For gas ovens, this means adjusting the dial to 375°F (190°C), while electric ovens require selecting the correct heat setting using the control panel.

Once you’ve preheated your oven, you can proceed with preparing the filling and crumble topping according to the recipe instructions. In our case, we’re making a homemade strawberry crumble that consists of sweet and tender strawberries topped with a crunchy mixture of sugar, flour, butter, and oats.

The combination of these ingredients creates a delightful contrast in textures and flavors, which will be further enhanced by the warm oven. By following this recipe to the letter, you’ll be rewarded with a mouthwatering dessert that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or serving as a stunning centerpiece for special occasions.

Prepare a 9x9inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter

To prepare a 9×9-inch baking dish for the homemade strawberry crumble recipe, it’s essential to have a clean and prepared surface for the dessert. The first step involves preparing the baking dish with either parchment paper or lightly greasing it with butter.

Using parchment paper is an excellent option as it prevents the crumble from sticking to the bottom of the dish, making it easy to remove and serve after baking. To do this, simply cut a square of parchment paper that fits the bottom of the 9×9-inch baking dish, place it inside, and press down gently on any air bubbles.

An alternative method is to lightly grease the baking dish with butter. This will also prevent the crumble from sticking and make cleanup easier. To grease the dish, simply take a small amount of melted butter and brush it evenly across the bottom and sides of the 9×9-inch baking dish.

Regardless of which method you choose, ensure that the parchment paper or greased area is evenly coated to prevent any areas from sticking. This will also help the crumble cook uniformly throughout.

Once your 9×9-inch baking dish is prepared, proceed with preparing the homemade strawberry crumble recipe by combining the sliced strawberries, sugar, and cornstarch in a separate bowl as instructed later in this article.

Crumble Creation

To create a delicious homemade strawberry crumble, you’ll need to follow these step-by-step instructions.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • Optional: 1/2 cup of chopped almonds or oatmeal for added texture and flavor

Crumble Topping

  • 1 cup of all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and salt. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, until the strawberries start to release their juice and the mixture becomes syrupy.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt for the crumble topping. Add in the cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry blender to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Transfer the strawberry mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish and top it with the crumble mixture, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.

If using almonds or oatmeal, sprinkle them on top of the crumble for added texture and flavor.

Bake the crumble in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly and tender.

Remove the crumble from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.

Mix together the dry ingredients in a separate bowl until well combined

To begin making this delicious Homemade Strawberry Crumble Recipe, you will first need to mix together the dry ingredients in a separate bowl until they are well combined.

This mixture consists of 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder

To combine these dry ingredients, use a medium-sized bowl and add the flour, brown sugar, and baking powder to it.

Next, take a whisk or a fork and mix everything together until there are no visible lumps or pockets of dryness within the mixture. Be sure to break down any stubborn clumps that form during this process.

A key aspect to note while mixing is not to overdo it; you want to avoid creating a glutinous texture, which can ruin the crumble’s crispy crust when baked. The mix should be well combined yet still retain some loose, powdery quality for the perfect crumble topping.

Once this dry mixture is well combined, you’re ready to proceed with the next steps in your Homemade Strawberry Crumble Recipe, such as preparing the strawberry filling and combining it with the dry ingredients to create a delectable, crunchy topping.

Tips and Variations

Adding Extra Flavor

To elevate your homemade strawberry crumble recipe to new heights, consider incorporating some exciting tips and variations that will add an extra layer of flavor and texture.

One of the most obvious ways to add extra flavor is by experimenting with different types of sugar. While white granulated sugar is a classic choice, try using brown sugar or muscovado sugar for a richer, caramel-like taste.

You can also add a hint of citrus zest to your strawberry crumble mixture. A sprinkle of orange or lemon zest will not only brighten up the flavors but also add a subtle aroma that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match different types of berries with your strawberries. Raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries can create a delightful medley of flavors and textures.

For an added crunch, try adding some chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans to the crumble topping. This will provide a satisfying texture contrast that complements the tender sweetness of the strawberries.

Bread crumbs can also be used as a substitute for oatmeal in the crumble topping, providing a nutty flavor and crunchy texture. Simply mix them with some brown sugar and butter for an added richness.

Spices can add depth to your strawberry crumble recipe without overpowering the flavors of the berries. Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to give it a warm, comforting taste.

And finally, consider using different types of milk instead of regular cow’s milk for an added richness and flavor. Almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk can add a creamy texture without overpowering the sweetness of the strawberries.

Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract over the strawberries for added flavor

To add a burst of flavor to your homemade strawberry crumble, try sprinkling 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract over the strawberries before topping with the crumb mixture.

This simple trick can elevate the taste and aroma of your dessert, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Use fresh and ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture. Choose sweet and firm berries for the crumble.
  • Don’t overmix the topping mixture, as this can make it dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
  • Use a combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar in the topping mixture to balance out the flavors.
  • Add a pinch of salt to balance out the sweetness of the strawberries and the sugar.

Fun Variations

  • Blueberry Crumble: Replace the strawberries with fresh or frozen blueberries for a delicious twist on the classic recipe.
  • Raspberry Crumble: Use fresh raspberries instead of strawberries for a sweet-tart flavor combination.
  • Triple Berry Crumble: Mix together strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a colorful and flavorful crumble.
  • Nectarine or Peach Crumble: Substitute sliced nectarines or peaches for the strawberries for a stone fruit twist on the classic recipe.

Use almond flour instead of all purpose flour for a gluten free option

To make this recipe even more special and accommodating to different dietary needs, you can consider substituting all-purpose flour with almond flour to create a gluten-free option.

Using almond flour will not only eliminate the presence of gluten but also add a delightful nutty flavor and texture to your crumble. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who are on a strict gluten-free diet or have gluten intolerance.

To incorporate this variation, simply replace 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 cup of almond flour. Keep in mind that using almond flour will also require a slight adjustment to the amount of liquid used, as it tends to absorb more moisture than traditional flours. You may need to add an extra tablespoon or two of water or milk to achieve the right consistency.

An additional tip for enhancing your crumble’s texture and flavor is to use different types of nuts. For example, you can replace almonds with hazelnuts or walnuts to create a unique blend. Experimenting with various nuts will not only add diversity but also bring about distinct flavors that complement the strawberries perfectly.

Another variation worth considering is adding a hint of spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom. These warm spices can elevate your crumble’s aroma and taste while maintaining its fruity essence. Simply sprinkle the spice of your choice over the strawberries before topping them with the crumble mixture.

Last but not least, if you’re feeling adventurous, try using different types of fruit, such as blueberries, rhubarb, or pineapple. The sweetness and tartness of these fruits will create a delightful contrast to the crumble’s crunchy texture. Feel free to experiment with various combinations to discover your favorite flavor pairings!

Remember, the beauty of baking lies in its flexibility and creativity. Don’t be afraid to try new variations or adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Happy baking!

Percival Langley
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Percival Langley, the creative force behind this site, holds the unique and delectable title of Gourmet Expert. With a passion for elevating the culinary experiences of our furry companions, Percival shares delightful and nutritious recipes that go beyond the ordinary. His site is a go-to resource for pet owners seeking to pamper their pets with gourmet treats and meals. Percival's expertise in crafting delicious and health-conscious pet cuisine is evident in the tasteful and innovative content he curates. For those who believe in treating their pets to a culinary adventure, Percival Langley's site is a flavorful journey into the world of gourmet pet delights.