If you have a soft spot for warm, comforting desserts that bring together the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, wait until you try this Blueberry Crumble with Almonds Recipe. Imagine juicy, freshly tossed blueberries infused with lemon zest, topped with a luscious, buttery crumble bursting with the crunch of almonds and oats. It’s that dreamy combination of textures and flavors that just feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family gathering or simply craving a treat to brighten your day, this Blueberry Crumble with Almonds Recipe will quickly become your go-to dessert that everyone asks for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Blueberry Crumble with Almonds Recipe come to life, you only need a handful of simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Each one plays a crucial role—fresh blueberries bring natural sweetness and color, lemons add that refreshing zing, while the almond-studded crumble creates an irresistible contrast with its buttery, crunchy texture.
- Fresh blueberries (2 to 2 1/4 pounds): The star of the show; choose ripe and juicy berries for the best flavor and vibrant color.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 Tbsp): Brightens the blueberries with a touch of citrusy tang.
- Lemon zest (1 tsp): Adds an aromatic punch that complements the berries beautifully.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups total): Used both to thicken the blueberry filling and create the crumble topping.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the fruit and the topping just perfectly without overpowering.
- Brown sugar (1/3 cup, packed): Gives a subtle caramel note to the crumble.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Infuses a warm, cozy spice that pairs well with the blueberries and almonds.
- Salt (1/8 tsp): Enhances all the flavors, bringing them into perfect balance.
- Cold unsalted butter (8 Tbsp, diced): Creates the rich, flaky texture in the crumble topping.
- Quick-cooking oats (½ cup): Adds chewiness and rustic texture to the crumble.
- Sliced almonds (1 cup, divided): Deliver a fabulous crunch and nutty flavor throughout the topping.
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (optional): The ideal finishing touch to elevate every bite.
How to Make Blueberry Crumble with Almonds Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Blueberries
Start by tossing your fresh blueberries with the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lemon zest. This simple step wakes up the berries, enhancing their natural brightness and giving the filling a subtle citrus aroma that will shine through once baked. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the rest.
Step 2: Coat the Berries
In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon. This trio is key to thickening the fruit juices during baking and adding just the right hint of warmth. Toss it gently with the blueberry mixture to evenly coat every berry. Then, spread the coated berries into your 9 x 13-inch baking dish—get ready for that juicy, bubbling fruit base!
Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping
Using a food processor fitted with a steel blade, pulse together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt. Then, add in your cold, diced butter and pulse until the mixture resembles small peas. This technique ensures that the butter stays cold, creating a crumbly texture that will bake into crisp, golden chunks.
Step 4: Add Oats and Almonds
Transfer the crumbly mixture to a large bowl and stir in the quick oats with your hands, breaking the pieces apart to form large crumbles. Then toss in half of the sliced almonds, mixing gently to distribute them evenly. These almonds throughout the topping provide delightful bursts of crunch and a beautiful nutty flavor.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Spread this mouthwatering topping over the blueberry layer evenly, making sure every inch is covered. Sprinkle the remaining almonds on top for an extra golden, crunchy finish. Bake at 350ËšF for about 40 minutes until the blueberries bubble enticingly around the edges and the crumble (plus almonds) turns a gorgeous golden brown. Now for the challenging part: let the crumble rest for at least 15 minutes after baking. This pause allows the filling to thicken slightly, making every spoonful a perfect balance of juicy fruit and crisp topping.
How to Serve Blueberry Crumble with Almonds Recipe
Garnishes
Though this dessert is outstanding on its own, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream takes it to the next level. The cool creaminess beautifully contrasts the warm crumble, enhancing every mouthful. If you want a little flair, sprinkle a few extra sliced almonds on top or add a fresh mint leaf for a pop of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
If you’re serving this Blueberry Crumble with Almonds Recipe as part of a larger meal, light sides work best. Think a simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to echo the citrus notes or a mild cheese plate to balance out the sweetness. It also pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee—perfect for a relaxing afternoon snack or dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the crumble in individual ramekins for a personal touch, especially when entertaining guests. Alternatively, layer the filling and crumble topping in clear glasses or jars for a rustic parfait look, allowing the vibrant blueberries to shine through. You can even dress it up with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness and a glossy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Blueberry crumble is one of those desserts that tastes just as good the next day. Store leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen, and it remains moist with a still-crunchy topping if you reheat it gently.
Freezing
This Blueberry Crumble with Almonds Recipe also freezes beautifully. You can prepare it completely and freeze it before baking, wrapped tightly with plastic wrap and foil, for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, bake it straight from frozen—just add about 10–15 extra minutes to the baking time for that perfect golden finish.
Reheating
To reheat, place the crumble in a preheated oven at 350˚F for 15–20 minutes until warm and bubbly. This method keeps the topping crisp and the filling luscious. Microwaving is quicker but may soften the topping, so oven reheating is preferred for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work well in this Blueberry Crumble with Almonds Recipe—just be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess liquid making the filling too runny.
What can I substitute for almonds if I have a nut allergy?
If you’re avoiding nuts, try substituting the sliced almonds with extra oats or crushed graham crackers. Both will add texture and maintain that delightful crunch in the crumble topping.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend and use gluten-free oats to keep everything safe without sacrificing flavor or texture.
How do I store leftovers without the topping getting soggy?
To keep the topping crisp, store the crumble separately from any additional liquids or cream. Reheat in the oven uncovered to revive the crunch each time you enjoy it.
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! You can assemble the crumble the day before and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This saves time on the day of your event and ensures fresh, warm dessert with minimal effort.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Blueberry Crumble with Almonds Recipe is the kind of dessert that brings smiles to the table and the warmth of homemade comfort with every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, it’s simple to make yet undeniably impressive. So go ahead, gather those fresh berries, and treat yourself to a slice of cozy sweetness—you’ll wonder why you waited so long to try it!
