Coffee and Dessert - Mixed Berry Crisp

For a recent dinner with friends I was asked to bring dessert, so I searched for something different to share. I cannot remember where I found this, so I have had to put the recipe together from memory. I can tell you that it was delicious and a big hit. I hope that my memory has served me well, and that you and your family or friends will enjoy it too.

Mixed Berry Crisp

Filling:

5 cups mixed fresh berries of your choice (blueberries/raspberries/strawberries/blackberries)

** If you use frozen berries - see note below **

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

2 tablespoons sugar

1 teaspoon lemon zest

2 teaspoons corn starch

2 tablespoons orange juice, apple juice, or water

Topping:

2/3 cup old fashioned oats

2/3 cup all purpose flour

1/4 cup light brown sugar

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut in cubes

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9 ½ inch deep dish pie plate or similar sized baking dish. Set aside.

Topping:

1. In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, sugars, salt, and cinnamon. Add butter and mix with hands until it forms clumps. Set aside.

Filling:

1. In a large bowl, combine all filling ingredients. Stir gently until well combined. Dump into prepared baking dish.
2. Sprinkle the topping over the berries. Bake for 40-50 minutes (check at 40 minutes) until the fruit is bubbling and juicy and the topping is light golden brown. Cool slightly, serve warm with vanilla ice cream.

Notes
** If using frozen berries do not thaw before assembly, and omit 2 tablespoons juice or water.