Growing up on the North Fork of Long Island, I was always lucky enough to be within walking distance of farm stands that always carried a bounty of fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables. My favorite summer dessert (I say "favorite" very cautiously) is a good old fashioned fruit crisp. The natural sweetness of fruit means little added sugar, and with not very many ingredients, it's fun (and simple) to experiment and make it your own! This recipe is inspired by a recent visit to my hometown on Long Island, my love for locally sourced fruits & veggies, and all things summer. The marriage of sweet peaches and tart blackberries makes this dessert a seasonal classic.
Ingredients:
- 10 large peaches (ripe, but not overly ripe) peeled, and cut into wedges
- 1 pint blackberries
- 1 cup quick cooking oats (not instant)
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 2/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1 cup flour, plus 2 tablespoons
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- zest of 1 lemon
- 2 sticks cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
Directions:
Lightly grease a 9x12 inch baking dish. Preheat oven to 350º. Place the peeled and cut peaches in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, combine 1/4 cup sugar, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, and lemon zest.
Mix well and pour over the peaches. Toss to coat the peaches. Add the blackberries and carefully mix in. Let sit for a few minutes. If the mixture seems watery, add another tablespoon or two of flour. Place the peach and blackberry mixture into a buttered 9x12 inch baking dish, and smooth until even.
In a bowl, combine the remaining 1 cup flour, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1/3 brown sugar, along with the oats and salt.
Using the paddle attachment (your fingers can also work just fine!) add the butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Add this topping in an even layer over the blackberry/peach mixture. Bake uncovered for 1 hour.
Channel your best self control when you take the finished product out of the oven, and wait a half-hour or so for it to cool and to let the flavors set. If you're feeling crazy, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enjoy à la mode!
Full disclosure, I enjoyed a slice for breakfast on my birthday last week.
What are some of your favorite summer desserts? Happy baking!
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