Celebrate the flavors of summer with this Summer Berry Bake, a simple yet stunning dessert that combines juicy seasonal berries with a lightly sweetened, golden topping. Perfect for casual family dinners, brunches, or outdoor gatherings, this bake is warm, comforting, and bursting with natural fruit sweetness.
With minimal effort, you can create a dessert that looks impressive, tastes fresh, and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
Serves 6–8
Berry Filling:
- 4 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker filling)
Topping:
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and diced
- 1/2 cup (50g) rolled oats
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 35–40 minutes
- Cooling time: 10 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar-sized ovenproof dish.
Step 2: Make the Berry Filling
- In a large bowl, combine berries, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and cornstarch.
- Gently toss until berries are coated evenly.
- Pour the berry mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add cold diced butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to incorporate until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in rolled oats and chopped nuts, if using.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the berry mixture.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and berries are bubbly.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect for summer picnics and family dinners.
- Serve as a warm dessert or chilled for a refreshing variation.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or Greek yogurt for extra indulgence.
- Great as a brunch addition alongside coffee or tea.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx. 1/6 of bake) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 3 grams |
| Total Fat | 11 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 6 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 36 grams |
| Sugars | 22 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sodium | 90 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Berries are high in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins.
- Oats and nuts provide texture, healthy fats, and additional nutrients.
- Moderate sugar content balances the natural sweetness of the fruit.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh, ripe berries for maximum flavor and juiciness.
- Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit.
- For a thicker filling, add a bit more cornstarch.
- Let the bake cool slightly for easier serving and to allow the juices to set.
Variations to Try
- Substitute some berries with stone fruits like peaches or plums for a mixed summer fruit bake.
- Add a sprinkle of shredded coconut or chocolate chips to the topping for added flavor.
- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Make mini berry bakes in ramekins for individual servings.
This Summer Berry Bake is a simple yet elegant dessert that captures the essence of summer. With its juicy berries and crisp, buttery topping, it’s a crowd-pleasing treat that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or chilled as a refreshing snack, this bake is a versatile and delicious addition to any summer menu.