Jamie Oliver’s Berry Crumble Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Berry Crumble is a delightful and simple dessert that blends the rich flavors of fresh berries with a golden, buttery topping. It’s an easy-to-make treat that combines comfort with sophistication, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Berry Crumble

Jamie Oliver’s Berry Crumble is a vibrant, fruity dessert that features a mixture of berries (such as raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries) combined with a crisp, buttery crumble topping. This dessert is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to choose your favorite berries or use frozen ones. The recipe is quick and easy to follow, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced home cooks.

The crumble is baked to perfection, with the fruit becoming juicy and tender under a golden, crunchy topping. The combination of textures-soft, sweet berries and a crisp, buttery topping-creates an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Plus, it can be served warm with a dollop of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Jamie Oliver’s Berry Crumble Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Berry Crumble, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. For The Fruit Filling

   • 500g mixed berries (such as raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries)
   • 100g sugar (adjust to taste, depending on the sweetness of the berries)
   • 1 tablespoon cornflour (to thicken the berry juices)
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but adds depth of flavor)

2. For The Crumble Topping

   • 200g plain flour
   • 100g cold unsalted butter, cubed
   • 100g rolled oats (for added crunch)
   • 150g brown sugar (or a mix of brown and white for a caramelized flavor)
   • A pinch of salt (to balance sweetness)

Equipment Needed

To prepare this delicious dessert, you will need the following kitchen tools:

1. Baking dish (around 1.5 liters or 6 cups capacity, depending on the amount of berries)
2. Mixing bowls (for combining the berries and crumble ingredients)
3. Pastry cutter or your fingers (to rub the butter into the dry ingredients for the crumble topping)
4. Measuring spoons and cups (for accurate measurements)
5. Oven (preheated to 180°C or 350°F for baking)
6. Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring the fruit filling)

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Berry Crumble?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Jamie Oliver’s Berry Crumble:

1. Prepare The Fruit Filling

   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine your mixed berries with the sugar, cornflour, and vanilla extract (if using). Stir gently to coat the berries evenly. The cornflour will help thicken the fruit juices as they cook.
   • Pour the berry mixture into your baking dish, spreading it evenly.

2. Make The Crumble Topping

   • In a separate bowl, combine the plain flour, oats, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt.
   • Add the cold cubed butter and use your fingertips (or a pastry cutter) to rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
   • Once you’ve achieved the desired texture, sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the top of the berries. Try to cover the entire surface for a crispy topping.

3. Bake The Crumble

   • Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden and crisp, and the fruit is bubbling at the edges.
   • Check the crumble occasionally to ensure it doesn’t burn, especially if you’re using a darker baking dish.

4. Serve

   • Allow the berry crumble to cool for a few minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, custard, or whipped cream.

Expert Tips

1. Berry Variety: While this recipe calls for mixed berries, feel free to experiment with your favorite fruits. You can add strawberries, raspberries, or even stone fruits like peaches and nectarines in the summer months. Just adjust the sugar level based on the fruit’s sweetness.
2. Frozen Berries: If fresh berries aren’t available, frozen berries work just as well! However, you might need to slightly reduce the cooking time as frozen berries release more moisture during baking.
3. Butter Tips: For a richer topping, consider using salted butter for the crumble. The salt will enhance the sweetness of the berries and give the crumble a more complex flavor.
4. Make Ahead: You can prepare the berry filling and crumble topping in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
5. Add Nuts: For extra texture and flavor, add some chopped nuts (like almonds or hazelnuts) to the crumble topping.
6. Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free flour blend instead of plain flour and substitute the oats for gluten-free oats.

Jamie Oliver’s Berry Crumble is a timeless dessert that brings together the natural sweetness of berries with a crunchy, buttery topping that is sure to please everyone. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a special occasion, or just because you crave something deliciously comforting, this crumble recipe is easy to follow and absolutely satisfying.

With its adaptability and simplicity, it’s a dessert that will never go out of style, and it’s perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers alike. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to a wonderful, homemade crumble!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Berry Crumble

Jamie Oliver’s berry crumble is a beloved dessert, known for its balance of sweetness, tanginess, and a delightful crunch. While his original recipe is delicious on its own, there are numerous variations you can experiment with to suit your tastes or to use seasonal produce. Here are some fun and easy variations:

1. Mixed Berries: Instead of just using one type of berry, go for a mix! A combination of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries will add depth to the flavor. The tartness of the raspberries pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries, while the blackberries and blueberries provide a juicy, plump texture. You can also try using frozen berries, which are great when fresh ones aren’t in season.
2. Citrus Twist: Add a burst of citrus to your berry crumble by including the zest of a lemon or an orange. You can even add a bit of their juice to the berry filling. This will brighten up the entire dish and give it a refreshing lift that pairs well with the natural sweetness of the berries.
3. Apple and Berry: Adding apples to the mix can create a more substantial filling and provide a lovely contrast to the berries’ softness. Granny Smith apples work particularly well, as their tartness complements the sweet berries. You can slice them thinly and mix them with your berries before baking.
4. Nuts and Oats Topping: To enhance the crumble topping, add some chopped nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans. You could also mix in some rolled oats for an extra layer of texture. This creates a heartier, more rustic topping with a pleasant crunch and nutty flavor that balances the softness of the fruit beneath.
5. Spices: For an extra kick, try adding ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the berry filling or the crumble topping. A pinch of cinnamon enhances the warmth of the berries, while nutmeg can bring a comforting spiciness to the dish.
6. Vegan or Dairy-Free Options: If you want to make the crumble vegan or dairy-free, simply swap the butter for coconut oil or vegan butter. You can also use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk in the filling to replace any dairy cream. These substitutions won’t sacrifice flavor but will make the dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
7. Boozy Berry Crumble: For an adult twist, you can add a splash of rum, brandy, or a sweet liqueur like Grand Marnier to the berry mixture. Let the fruit absorb the alcohol before assembling the crumble. This adds a sophisticated depth of flavor, perfect for serving at a dinner party.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Berry crumble is one of those desserts that tastes just as great the next day. If you happen to have leftovers, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain both texture and flavor. Here’s how:

1. Cool Completely: Allow the berry crumble to cool to room temperature before storing. Storing it while still hot can cause condensation, which may make the crumble soggy.
2. Airtight Container: Once the crumble has cooled, transfer it into an airtight container. This will help keep the moisture out and preserve the flavors. If you plan to store the crumble for a longer period, wrapping it in plastic wrap before placing it in the airtight container can provide an extra layer of protection.
3. Refrigeration: If you plan to eat the leftovers within a few days, place the crumble in the fridge. The dessert should be good for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. If the crumble’s topping has softened, you can easily reheat it in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore some of its original crispness.
4. Freezing Leftovers: If you want to store berry crumble for a longer period, freezing it is a great option. To freeze, let the crumble cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake the frozen crumble directly from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Separate Components: If you want to avoid sogginess, store the topping and fruit filling separately. You can mix them back together when reheating for a fresher texture.

What Goes Well With Berry Crumble?

Berry crumble is a wonderful dessert on its own, but there are a few ingredients and sides that can enhance the experience even further. Here are some ideas:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: This is a classic pairing. The creamy, cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, fruity crumble. Vanilla is a great option, but you can also experiment with flavors like cinnamon, caramel, or even honeycomb.
2. Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream adds richness and a slight sweetness that balances the tartness of the berries. You can also try flavored whipped cream, such as a cinnamon-infused version or one made with a hint of vanilla or maple syrup.
3. Custard: If you prefer a more decadent dessert, serve your berry crumble with a rich vanilla custard. The velvety texture of custard complements the crispy crumble topping and fruit filling perfectly.
4. Greek Yogurt: For a slightly tangy contrast, serve the crumble with a dollop of thick Greek yogurt. This also makes the dessert a bit healthier, offering protein and probiotics, especially if you’re looking for a more wholesome treat.
5. Cheese Pairings: If you’re after something unique, serve berry crumble with a side of mild, creamy cheese like mascarpone or ricotta. The mild cheese adds a silky richness that contrasts well with the tartness of the berries.
6. Beverages: For drinks, berry crumble pairs wonderfully with a glass of dessert wine, such as a sweet Riesling or Moscato. Alternatively, a cup of hot tea or coffee can balance the sweetness and help round out the dessert experience.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s berry crumble is a versatile and comforting dessert, with endless opportunities for customization. Whether you choose to experiment with different fruits, add spices, or make it vegan-friendly, this dessert can cater to any occasion or palate.

Storing leftovers is a breeze, and with the right storage methods, you can enjoy this indulgence for several days. Pair it with a scoop of ice cream, some whipped cream, or a flavorful drink, and you’ve got yourself a well-rounded, satisfying dessert experience.

Ultimately, the beauty of berry crumble lies in its simplicity and its ability to be adapted to various tastes and dietary needs. It’s a timeless classic that will always hit the spot, no matter how you choose to serve it.

FAQs

What Berries Can I Use For Jamie Oliver’s Berry Crumble?

Jamie Oliver’s berry crumble recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to use a mix of different berries such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, or even a combination of all these. You can also use frozen berries if fresh ones are not available.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Berry Crumble Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this crumble gluten-free by substituting regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free if you are using them.

How Can I Make The Topping For The Crumble More Crunchy?

To achieve a crunchier topping for your crumble, try adding more butter or use a mixture of nuts like almonds or hazelnuts. You can also bake it a little longer to get the desired crispiness.

Can I Add Spices To Jamie Oliver’s Berry Crumble?

Yes, you can add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the crumble topping or the berry filling for an extra layer of flavor. Cinnamon works particularly well with berry-based desserts.

Is It Necessary To Add Sugar To The Filling Of The Crumble?

It is not absolutely necessary, but a little sugar in the berry filling helps balance out the tartness of the berries. You can adjust the amount based on the sweetness of the berries you’re using.

How Do I Store Leftover Jamie Oliver’s Berry Crumble?

Store leftover crumble in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain its crispiness.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Berry Crumble?

Yes, you can freeze both the uncooked and cooked crumble. To freeze uncooked crumble, assemble the crumble and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To freeze after baking, allow it to cool and then store it in an airtight container in the freezer.

Can I Substitute The Butter In The Crumble Topping?

Yes, you can substitute butter with margarine or a plant-based alternative such as coconut oil for a dairy-free version. The texture might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.

What Can I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Berry Crumble?

Jamie Oliver’s berry crumble is perfect with a dollop of cream, vanilla ice cream, or custard. You can also serve it with Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast.

How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Berry Crumble?

The preparation time for Jamie Oliver’s berry crumble is about 15-20 minutes, and the baking time is around 40-45 minutes. Total time should be around 1 hour, depending on your oven.