Strawberry Shortcake Crumble Simple and Tasty Treat

Craving a sweet treat that’s simple to whip up? You’re in the right place! Today, I'll share my easy Strawberry Shortcake Crumble recipe that’s both delicious and fun to make. Fresh strawberries, a crumbly topping, and a dollop of whipped cream come together to create a dessert that will wow anyone. Let’s dive into this tasty treat and make your next dessert unforgettable!

Ingredients

Fresh Strawberries

For this recipe, you need 2 cups of fresh strawberries. Make sure they are ripe, hulled, and sliced. The best strawberries bring out the sweet taste and bright color. You will also need 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar to sweeten the berries. Adding 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract boosts the flavor, creating a delightful base for your dessert.

Dry Ingredients

The dry ingredients consist of 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of fine sea salt. This mix creates the crumble topping. The flour provides structure, while the sugar adds sweetness. Baking powder helps the crumble rise, and salt enhances flavors.

Butter and Cream

You will need 1/2 cup of unsalted butter for the crumble. Make sure it's cold and cubed. This helps achieve a flaky texture. For the cream, get 1/3 cup of whole milk to bind the crumble. You will also need 1 cup of heavy whipping cream for the topping. Add 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar to sweeten it. This whipped cream will be light and fluffy, perfect for serving with your dessert.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, grease a 9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This helps prevent sticking.

Prepare the Strawberries

In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of fresh strawberries, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Toss them gently to coat. Let the strawberries sit for about 10 minutes. This brings out their sweet juices.

Make the Crumble Mixture

In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1/3 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. Mix these dry ingredients well. This creates a nice base for your crumble.

Assemble the Dish

Spread the strawberry mixture evenly in your greased baking dish. Then, take spoonfuls of the crumble mixture and drop them over the strawberries. Make sure to cover as much of the strawberries as you can.

Bake to Perfection

Place your dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes. Look for a golden brown topping and bubbling strawberries. This means it is done!

Whip the Cream

While the crumble bakes, pour 1 cup of heavy whipping cream into a bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer to whip the cream until it forms stiff peaks. This will be your light topping.

Cool Before Serving

After baking, let the crumble cool for 5-10 minutes. This helps the flavors mix and makes it easier to serve.

Serve and Enjoy

Scoop generous portions of the warm crumble into bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a bright touch. Enjoy every bite!

Tips & Tricks

Choosing the Best Strawberries

When picking strawberries, look for bright red ones. They should be firm and fragrant. Avoid any with green or mushy spots. Fresh strawberries make a big difference in taste. If possible, buy them from local farmers. They often taste better than store-bought berries.

Perfecting the Crumble Texture

For a great crumble, keep your butter cold. Cut it into small pieces before mixing. Blend it into the flour until it looks like coarse crumbs. Don't overmix; you want it to stay light. A perfect crumble has some larger pieces for crunch. This adds texture and makes each bite fun.

Making a Lighter Whipped Cream

For fluffy whipped cream, use cold heavy cream. Start with a chilled bowl and beaters. Add powdered sugar while whipping for sweetness. Whip until you see stiff peaks form. This means it holds its shape well. A lighter whipped cream makes your dessert feel special. It balances the sweet fruit and crumble perfectly.

Variations

Adding Other Fruits

You can switch up the fruit in this dessert. Try using blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. Each fruit adds its own unique flavor to the crumble. Mix fruits together for a fun twist. You can also use frozen fruit if fresh is not available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

Gluten-Free Options

For a gluten-free crumble, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. There are many good options available. Make sure to check that the blend contains xanthan gum, as it helps to bind the crumble. This way, you can enjoy the same great taste without the gluten.

Vegan Alternatives

To make a vegan version, replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. For the whipped cream, look for a coconut cream or a store-bought vegan option. These swaps will keep the dessert delicious and cruelty-free. Enjoy your vegan strawberry shortcake crumble without any compromise!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

You can keep leftover strawberry shortcake crumble in an airtight container. This will keep it fresh for about three days. Store it in the fridge to maintain its taste and texture. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option.

Reheating Tips

To reheat the crumble, place it in an oven set to 350°F (175°C). Cover it lightly with foil to prevent it from browning too much. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until it is warm throughout. You can also use the microwave. Just heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking each time.

Freezing for Later

If you want to freeze your crumble, first let it cool fully. Cut it into pieces and place them in freezer-safe bags. This makes it easy to grab a portion later. It will stay good for about two to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Strawberry Shortcake Crumble ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crumble in advance. Mix the strawberries and sugar, then store them in the fridge. You can also make the crumble topping and keep it in a sealed container. When you're ready, assemble and bake it fresh. This keeps the crumble crunchy and the strawberries juicy.

What is the best way to serve it?

Serve the crumble warm for the best taste. Scoop it into bowls and add a big dollop of whipped cream on top. You can also add fresh mint leaves for a nice touch. This dish looks great and tastes even better when served right away.

Can I substitute different fruits?

Absolutely! You can use blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. Just make sure to adjust the sugar based on the fruit's sweetness. Mixing fruits can add fun flavors and colors. It’s a great way to use what you have on hand or to enjoy seasonal fruits.

How do I make it less sweet?

To cut down on sweetness, reduce the sugar in the strawberries and crumble. You can also use less whipped cream or swap it for a yogurt topping. Using tart fruits like rhubarb can also balance the sweetness. Always taste as you go to find the right balance.

You’ve learned how to make a tasty Strawberry Shortcake Crumble. We covered fresh strawberries, dry ingredients, and how butter and cream bring flavor. I walked you through each step, from preheating the oven to cooling the dish. Remember these tips for the best results, like choosing ripe strawberries. Variations let you get creative, whether trying other fruits or making it gluten-free. Store leftovers wisely and enjoy them later. Now, make this crumble and share it with friends and family for a sweet treat everyone will love!