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Air Fryer Berry Crisp: The Easiest Way to Use Up Summer Fruit

As summer draws to a close, our gardens (and local markets) are bursting with a rainbow of ripe berries—strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries all beckon for attention. While there are endless ways to enjoy these delightful fruits, one stand-out recipe that combines ease with deliciousness is the Air Fryer Berry Crisp. This dish not only highlights the flavour and freshness of the season’s berries but also offers a quick and effortless approach to using up any surplus you may have. Let’s dive into why this berry crisp recipe is a must-try and how to whip it up with minimal fuss.

A Celebration of Summer Flavours

The Air Fryer Berry Crisp marries the beautiful natural sweetness of summer berries with a delightfully crispy topping, delivering a dessert that can be enjoyed warm or cold. This dish encapsulates the essence of summer—bright, fresh, and inviting. Plus, using seasonal fruits means you can indulge in nature’s bounty while making the most of what’s readily available.

Why an Air Fryer?

If you’re a fan of crispy textures without the guilt associated with traditional frying techniques, an air fryer is your new best friend. It uses hot air circulation to achieve a desirable crunch, making it a healthier alternative to oven-baked crisps. Not only does it cook faster than conventional methods, but it also requires less oil, allowing the natural flavours of the berries to shine through.

The Easiest Recipe You’ll Ever Make

Now that we’re convinced of the charm and benefits of an air fryer, let’s get to the recipe. Here’s how you can create a delightful Air Fryer Berry Crisp in just a few simple steps.

Ingredients:

• 400g mixed summer berries (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust according to the sweetness of the berries)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 100g rolled oats
• 50g plain flour
• 40g brown sugar
• 50g butter (or a vegan alternative), melted
• A pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Berries: In a mixing bowl, combine the berries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. If using frozen berries, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Gently toss everything together until the berries are well-coated.

2. Make the Topping: In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, plain flour, brown sugar, melted butter, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Stir until all ingredients are well combined and crumbly.

3. Assemble the Crisp: Grease the bottom of the air fryer basket or use parchment paper for easy cleaning. Spread the berry mixture evenly in the basket, followed by a generous layer of the topping.

4. Cook: Set your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) and cook for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes; you want the topping to turn a lovely golden brown and the berries to bubble slightly.

5. Serve: Once cooked, allow the berry crisp to cool for a few minutes before serving. It pairs perfectly with a scoop of ice cream, a dollop of crème fraîche, or simply enjoyed warm on its own.

A Versatile Delight

One of the beauties of this dish is its versatility. Feel free to mix and match different types of berries based on what you have available. You can also customise the topping by adding nuts or seeds for an extra crunch. This recipe is forgiving and can easily be adjusted for different dietary needs, such as gluten-free alternatives or plant-based butter.

Conclusion

As summer fruit starts to dwindle, the Air Fryer Berry Crisp stands as a picturesque farewell to the season’s sweet treats. This simple yet satisfying dessert is an excellent way to utilise those last summer berries, allowing you to relish the flavours of the season all year round. With minimal prep and maximal taste, it’s the perfect solution for both busy weeknights and festive gatherings. So, gather up those ripe berries and give this delightful recipe a go—you won’t be disappointed!