Blueberry Crumble with Almonds and Oats

This Blueberry Crumble with Almonds and Oats is the perfect dessert for any occasion! Made with fresh blueberries, a hint of lemon, and a crunchy, golden crumble topping filled with oats and almonds, it’s a simple yet irresistible treat. This easy blueberry crumble recipe is bursting with sweet, juicy blueberries and is topped with a buttery, crumbly oat topping that bakes to perfection. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a comforting dessert everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Blueberry Filling:

• 2 to 2 1/4 pounds (about 36 oz) fresh blueberries, rinsed and well-drained
• 2 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest (zest of 1 lemon)
• 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

For the Crumble Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/8 tsp (generous pinch) salt
• 8 Tbsp (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, diced
• 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats
• 1 cup sliced almonds, divided

To Serve (optional):

• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Blueberry Filling:
   Toss the blueberries with 2 Tbsp lemon juice and 1 tsp lemon zest. Set aside for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Coat the Blueberries:
   In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour, and 1 tsp ground cinnamon. Gently toss this mixture with the blueberries until evenly coated. Transfer the coated blueberries into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Make the Crumble Topping:
   In a food processor, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/3 cup brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Pulse a few times to combine. Add the diced cold butter and pulse until the butter breaks into small pea-sized pieces.
4. Combine the Topping Ingredients:
   Transfer the crumb mixture into a bowl. Add the 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats and use your hands to mix, creating large crumbles. Stir in ½ cup of sliced almonds.
5. Assemble the Crumble:
   Evenly spread the crumble topping over the blueberry filling, making sure it’s well covered. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of sliced almonds on top of the crumble.
6. Bake:
   Bake at 350˚F (175˚C) for 40 minutes, or until the blueberries are bubbling at the edges and the topping is golden brown. Let the crumble sit for at least 15 minutes before serving; it will thicken as it cools. The crumble stays warm for a couple of hours and can be reheated beautifully the next day.

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Tips

• Rinse and Dry the Blueberries: Ensure your blueberries are fully dry after rinsing, as excess moisture can affect the texture of the crumble filling.
• Butter Temperature: Use cold butter to make the crumble topping. Cold butter creates a flakier, more crumbly texture.
• Allow Cooling Time: Let the crumble rest for 15 minutes after baking for the best consistency. It thickens as it cools.

Variations and Substitutions

• Fruit Variations: Substitute the blueberries with other berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries. You can also mix different berries for a more colorful crumble.
• Nuts: Swap the almonds for other nuts like pecans or walnuts if desired. You can also leave the nuts out if you prefer a nut-free dessert.
• Sweeteners: Use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a more natural sweetness. Adjust the amount to taste.

FAQs

Can I make this crumble ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the crumble topping and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just assemble and bake when ready to serve.

Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, frozen blueberries work fine in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before using them in the filling to avoid excess moisture.

How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover blueberry crumble in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore its crispy topping.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the warm blueberry crumble with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the perfect finishing touch.
• Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
• It makes a great dessert for family gatherings, barbecues, or potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Blueberry Crumble is the ultimate comfort dessert, combining juicy blueberries with a golden, buttery topping. The addition of oats and almonds adds a delightful crunch that perfectly balances the sweetness of the fruit. The bright lemon zest enhances the blueberries’ flavor, while the warm, comforting aroma fills your kitchen as it bakes. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or enjoying it as an everyday treat, this crumble is sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.