The Peach Blueberry Crumble is a quintessential summer dessert, celebrating the best of seasonal fruits with a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. It’s an easy-to-make dish, ideal for family gatherings or a cozy treat at home. The combination of juicy peaches and fresh blueberries, topped with a buttery, crunchy crumble, makes it a crowd favorite.
Ingredients Breakdown
The main ingredients for this recipe include peaches, blueberries, and a few basic pantry items. Fresh fruits are the star, but frozen peaches and blueberries can also be used, especially when out of season. Here’s a detailed look at the components:
- Peaches and Blueberries: These fruits bring the perfect mix of sweetness and tartness. For the best flavor, use ripe, juicy peaches and fresh blueberries. If you opt for frozen fruits, make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.
- Crumble Topping: The crumble is a mix of rolled oats, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and butter. You can also add cinnamon or ginger for a warm, spicy note.
- Filling Add-ons: Lemon juice and zest enhance the natural sweetness of the fruit, while a bit of vanilla extract adds depth. Cornstarch is often included to thicken the filling, preventing it from becoming too watery.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit Filling: Start by slicing the peaches and combining them with fresh blueberries in a bowl. Toss the fruits with sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a bit of cornstarch to thicken the mixture as it bakes.
- Make the Crumble Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add cold, cubed butter, and use your fingers to blend it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble the Crumble: Spread the fruit mixture evenly in a baking dish or a cast-iron skillet. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the fruit, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. You can adjust the thickness of the crumble based on your preference.
- Bake: Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 40–45 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit juices are bubbling.
- Serve: Let the crumble cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, often with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips and Variations
- Coconut Sugar: Some variations of the recipe suggest using coconut sugar in place of regular sugar for a nuttier, less sweet taste.
- Individual Servings: You can bake the crumble in individual ramekins, which makes for a lovely presentation when serving guests.
- Nutty Additions: For extra texture, consider adding sliced almonds or chopped pecans to the crumble topping.
- Storage: Leftover crumble can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave to restore its crispness. You can also freeze the crumble for up to three months.
Nutritional Information
While a Peach Blueberry Crumble is a decadent dessert, it’s relatively healthier than many alternatives. The recipe can be made even lighter by using whole-wheat flour or oats in the topping and reducing the amount of sugar. The fruits themselves provide a wealth of vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making this a somewhat wholesome indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
This crumble pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, but you can also serve it with custard or a simple drizzle of heavy cream. The warm, buttery topping combined with the cold creaminess of ice cream creates a delightful contrast in textures and temperatures.
Conclusion
Peach Blueberry Crumble is a classic dessert that embodies the flavors of summer. It’s quick to prepare, making it a go-to for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a weeknight treat, this crumble is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth while highlighting the season’s best produce.
For more detailed instructions and variations, you can explore some amazing sources, such as Two Peas & Their Pod, A Classic Twist, and Taste of the South.
