Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Mixed Berry Buckle is a delicious, versatile dessert perfect for any occasion. With a tender cake base made from a blend of fresh or frozen berries, this treat combines the sweetness of blueberries and strawberries with the tartness of raspberries, all topped with a buttery cinnamon crumble. It’s perfect for brunch, an afternoon snack, or a comforting dessert to enjoy with family and friends.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the cake:
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¼ cup shortening
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 2 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups (fresh or frozen) mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, and diced strawberries)
- Additional shortening and flour to prepare the baking pan
For the topping:
- ½ cup sugar
- ⅓ cup flour
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup butter
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together sugar and shortening until light and fluffy. Add the egg and mix until blended. Then, add the milk and mix again until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined. Gently fold in the berries.
- Grease and flour a 9x9 or 8x10-inch pan, and spread the berry batter evenly into the pan.
- For the topping, combine sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Cut in butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Sprinkle the topping over the batter.
- Bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes (for an 8x10 pan) or 45-50 minutes (for a 9x9 pan), or until a cake tester comes out clean.
- Serve warm or cold, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8–10
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 35-50 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Fruit Variations: You can swap the mixed berries for other fruits like blackberries, peaches, or apples, depending on the season.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
- Vegan: Substitute the egg and milk with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and a flax egg.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover Mixed Berry Buckle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 20-30 seconds.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen berries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen berries. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before mixing into the batter to avoid excess moisture.
2. What is the difference between a buckle and a cobbler?
A buckle is a type of cake with a fruit base and a streusel-like topping, while a cobbler has a biscuit-like topping that rests on top of the fruit filling.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and topping ahead of time, store them separately in the fridge, and bake it when you're ready to serve.
4. Can I use a different kind of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier version, though it may slightly alter the texture.
5. Can I use only one type of berry?
Yes, you can use only one berry variety if preferred, like all blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries.
6. How can I tell if the buckle is done?
The buckle is done when a cake tester or toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, and the top is golden brown.
7. Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes, you can freeze it after baking. Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
8. What is the best way to serve the Mixed Berry Buckle?
It can be served warm or at room temperature, and it's especially delicious with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
9. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan to make more servings.
10. Can I use margarine instead of butter for the topping?
Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter, though it may slightly change the texture of the topping.
Conclusion
This Mixed Berry Buckle is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of fresh or frozen berries with a moist cake base and a crunchy cinnamon topping. Whether you're looking for a quick weekday treat or something to serve at a family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream or as-is for a comforting bite!
Mixed Berry Buckle Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Recipe: This Mixed Berry Buckle is a delicious and versatile dessert, featuring a tender cake base made with a blend of fresh or frozen berries. The combination of blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries provides the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, while the buttery cinnamon crumble topping adds a delightful crunch. Perfect for brunch, afternoon snacks, or a comforting dessert to share with friends and family!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings
- Category: Dessert, Cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the cake:
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¼ cup shortening
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 2 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries - fresh or frozen)
- Additional shortening and flour for preparing the pan
For the topping:
- ½ cup sugar
- ⅓ cup flour
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together sugar and shortening until light and fluffy. Add the egg and mix until smooth. Then add the milk and blend well.
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Gently fold in the berries.
- Grease and flour a 9x9 or 8x10-inch pan. Spread the berry batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- For the topping, combine sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles crumbs. Sprinkle the topping over the batter.
- Bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes (for an 8x10 pan) or 45-50 minutes (for a 9x9 pan), or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Serve warm or cold, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- Fruit Variations: You can swap the mixed berries with other fruits like blackberries, peaches, or apples based on what’s in season.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual servings for 20-30 seconds.
