Black Raspberry Crisp – Tart, Sweet & Comforting
Adam
A luscious dessert bursting with juicy black raspberries and topped with a warm, crisp oat crumble—perfect for warm days or cozy nights.
🎉 Introduction
This Black Raspberry Crisp is pure dessert bliss—tangy fresh black raspberries come together with a buttery cereal topping that bakes to golden perfection. It’s delightfully easy, irresistibly delicious, and feels cozy enough for a family gathering yet gourmet enough for dinner parties.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 35 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish
Medium saucepan
Mixing bowls (large and small)
Whisk and rubber spatula
Spoon or spatula for assembling
Parchment paper or baking mat (optional for easy cleanup)
🍇 Filling
- 6 cups fresh or thawed frozen black raspberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 Tbsp cornstarch mixed with enough cold water to dissolve
- ¾ cup boiling water
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter divided
🍯 Crumble Topping
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a saucepan, combine black raspberries, granulated sugar, and dissolved cornstarch.
Stir over medium heat until the mixture thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in ¾ cup boiling water and 1 tbsp butter, whisking until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Filling
Step 4: Make the Crumble Topping
In a bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, oats, and cinnamon.
Stir in ¼ cup melted butter until the mixture is crumbly and evenly moistened.
Step 5: Finish & Bake
Sprinkle the oat crumble evenly over the berry filling.
Dot the top with the remaining 1 Tbsp butter.
Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the top is golden and the filling bubbles.
Let cool slightly (about 10 minutes) before serving—serving warm is ideal!
🥄 Variations
Mixed Berry Delight: Add raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries
Nutty Crunch: Stir in ½ cup chopped pecans or almonds with the oats
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free oats and flour
Warm Spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the topping
Creamy Serve: Top with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of cream before serving
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days
Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days
Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months—thaw and reheat in the oven
Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave individual portions for 30–45 seconds
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use frozen berries?
Yes! Thaw and drain before cooking into the filling.
Why add boiling water?
It helps dissolve sugar and gives a better consistency.
Can I reduce sugar?
Yes—lower it slightly, but texture and sweetness may vary.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use plant-based butter substitutes. The crisp still works great!
Can I halve the recipe?
Yes—use a smaller baking dish and adjust bake time slightly.
What pan sizes are best?
8×8 or 9×9 are ideal for even baking.
Can I add spices?
Absolutely—nutmeg or cardamom add depth to the flavor profile.
Should I make crumble ahead?
Yes—store crumb mix and add just before baking for better texture.
Is it okay to underbake slightly?
Let the topping crisp for the full time—undercooked filling can be watery.
What to serve with it?
A scoop of ice cream or dollop of whipped cream makes it irresistible.
🏁 Conclusion
This Black Raspberry Crisp is dessert heaven—sweet-tart fruit with a generous crunch that hits all the right notes. From casual family dinners to festive gatherings, it’s the kind of dessert that feels both homey and special. Serve it warm, enjoy every spoonful, and don’t forget the ice cream! 🍨💜