Strawberry Lemon Crumble Savory and Simple Dessert

Are you ready to indulge in a simple yet delightful treat? My Strawberry Lemon Crumble is just the ticket! Bursting with juicy strawberries and zesty lemon, this dessert is easy to make and even easier to love. With a crisp topping that balances sweet and tart, it’s perfect for any occasion. Let me guide you through the fresh ingredients and simple steps to create a dessert that will impress everyone at your table.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Fruity: This crumble highlights the natural sweetness of strawberries, making it a delightful summer dessert.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Perfectly Tart: The addition of lemon juice and zest adds a refreshing tang that balances the sweetness of the strawberries.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious contrast that elevates the dish.
Ingredients
Fresh Ingredients
– 4 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
– Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Baking Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 3/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
Additional Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
– Optional: Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
When I make strawberry lemon crumble, I love using fresh, ripe strawberries. Their sweet and juicy flavor makes the dessert shine. I also add lemon juice and zest to brighten the taste. This combo creates a wonderful balance between sweet and tart.
For the crumble, I mix flour, oats, and brown sugar. These ingredients give it a nice texture. The oats add a hearty crunch, while the brown sugar brings a deep sweetness. Ground cinnamon adds warmth and flavor, making it even better.
I use cold, unsalted butter in cubes. This helps the crumble stay crumbly. It forms little bits that bake up golden brown. Granulated sugar adds a bit more sweetness to the mixture.
Finally, I love serving this crumble warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold creaminess contrasts perfectly with the warm, fruity filling. A sprig of mint is a great way to finish the dish. It looks pretty and adds a hint of freshness.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Strawberries
Start with 4 cups of fresh strawberries. First, hull them by removing the green tops. Then, slice the strawberries into smaller pieces. Place the sliced strawberries in a mixing bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, along with the juice and zest of 1 lemon. Gently toss the strawberries to coat them well. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps the strawberries release their juices and enhances their flavor.
Making the Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir until the dry ingredients are fully combined. Next, add 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter, cubed, into the flour mixture. Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to blend the butter. You want the mixture to look like coarse crumbs. This will create a nice, crunchy topping.
Assembling and Baking
Now it’s time to assemble your dessert. Pour the marinated strawberries into a greased 9×9 inch baking dish. Spread them evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the strawberries, ensuring it covers them well. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You want the topping to be golden brown and the strawberries to be bubbling. Once done, take it out and let it cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Crumble
– Choosing the right butter: Use cold, unsalted butter. It helps create a flaky texture. Cut the butter into small cubes before mixing. This makes it easier to blend into the dry mix.
– Achieving the right crumble texture: You want a mix that looks like coarse crumbs. Don’t overwork it; this keeps it light. Combine the butter gently with the dry mix.
Serving Suggestions
– Serving warm with ice cream or whipped cream: This dessert shines when served warm. A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm crumble. Whipped cream adds a light touch and balances the fruit’s tartness.
– Garnishing ideas for presentation: Add a sprig of fresh mint on top. It adds color and a hint of freshness. You can also sprinkle some lemon zest for a bright look.
Flavor Pairing Suggestions
– Complementary flavors that enhance the dish: Try pairing it with fresh basil or mint. These herbs add a unique twist. A drizzle of honey can also enhance the sweetness. These flavors work well with the strawberries and lemon.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Strawberries: The best flavor comes from ripe, fresh strawberries. Look for bright red berries that are firm and fragrant for the sweetest taste.
- Chill the Butter: Ensure your butter is cold before cutting it into the flour mixture. This helps create a flaky topping that will crisp up nicely in the oven.
- Let It Rest: Allow the crumble to cool slightly before serving. This helps the juices thicken and makes it easier to scoop and serve.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the crumble for an extra layer of flavor that complements the strawberries and lemon.

Variations
Fruit Substitutions
You can swap strawberries for other berries. Blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries work well. Each fruit brings its own flavor. You might want to taste the fruit first. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your fruit. If you’re using tart fruit, add a bit more sugar. For sweeter fruits, cut back on the sugar.
Dietary Adjustments
For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a gluten-free blend instead of all-purpose flour. This keeps the crumble tasty and safe for those with gluten issues. You can also make it vegan by substituting butter. Use coconut oil or vegan butter in equal amounts. This keeps the richness without using animal products.
Flavor Experimentations
You can add spices to change the flavor. Try a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for warmth. A splash of vanilla extract can also enhance the taste. For a zesty kick, add more lemon zest. This will make the dessert even brighter. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your flavors!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To keep your strawberry lemon crumble fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down before sealing. This helps prevent moisture, which can make the topping soggy. In the fridge, it stays good for about 3 to 5 days. Always check for freshness before serving. If you see any signs of spoilage, it’s best to toss it.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze strawberry lemon crumble for later enjoyment. First, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place the wrapped crumble in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. For reheating, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes. This brings back its crispiness and flavor. Enjoy your tasty treat just like fresh!
FAQs
How to make the crumble topping crispier?
To make your crumble topping crispier, use cold butter. Cut it into small cubes. This helps create a nice texture. Mix it into the dry ingredients until it looks like coarse crumbs. You can also add more oats for extra crunch. Bake until golden brown, around 30-35 minutes. If you want even more crisp, broil it for a minute at the end.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. However, they will change the texture a bit. Frozen strawberries release more juice while baking. This can make the filling a little runnier. To help, drain any excess liquid before adding them to the dish. You might want to add a bit more sugar to balance the flavors.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To reheat leftovers, use the oven for the best results. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the crumble in an oven-safe dish. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm. You can also use a microwave, but it may make the topping soft. If you want to keep the texture, stick with the oven method.
In this article, we explored how to make a delicious strawberry lemon crumble. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned about the importance of fresh fruit and the right baking techniques. Remember, you can adjust the recipe with different fruits or dietary options to fit your needs. Enjoy serving this dessert warm, especially with ice cream. Happy bakin

Strawberry Lemon Crumble
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 whole lemon (juice and zest)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3.75 cups rolled oats
- 0.5 cup brown sugar, packed
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 1 serving Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Toss gently to coat the strawberries and set aside to marinate for about 10 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Add the cubed cold butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, blend the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pour the marinated strawberries into the prepared baking dish, spreading them evenly.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping over the strawberries, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the strawberries are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.





![- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened - 1 cup brown sugar, packed - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 2 large eggs - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract These ingredients form the base of your cookie bars. The butter adds richness, while the sugars provide sweetness and moisture. Eggs help bind everything together, and vanilla adds that warm, sweet flavor we all love. - 3 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon salt The flour gives structure to the bars. Baking soda is a leavening agent, which helps them rise and become soft. Salt enhances flavor and balances the sweetness, making each bite even better. - 2 cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate) - 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) Chocolate chips are the star of these bars! You can choose semi-sweet for a balanced taste or milk chocolate for a sweeter bite. If you like a little crunch, add walnuts or pecans for extra texture. Don’t forget to check the [Full Recipe] for precise measurements. - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). - Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Start by setting your oven. This step is key. A hot oven helps the bars rise nicely. Greasing or lining the dish makes it easy to remove the bars later. - Cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Next, grab a big bowl. Add your softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix them well. You want the mixture light and fluffy. This step adds air, making your bars soft. - Add eggs and vanilla extract, mix well. - Blend in dry ingredients and fold in chocolate chips and nuts. Now, it’s time for the eggs and vanilla. Add them one at a time. Mix well after each one. In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add this mix to the butter mix. Stir gently. Finally, fold in your chocolate chips and nuts. This is where the magic happens! - Spread dough in the prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes. - Cool before cutting into squares. Spread your dough evenly in the dish. Bake it for 25 to 30 minutes. The edges should turn golden brown. Use a toothpick to check if it’s done. After baking, let the bars cool for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack. Once cooled, cut them into squares. Enjoy your sweet treat or share with friends! For the full recipe, check the details above. To get the best cookie bars, measure your flour right. Too much flour makes them dry. Use a spoon to scoop the flour into your measuring cup. Level it off with a knife. This way, you get just the right amount. Also, let your butter and eggs sit out for a bit. Room temperature helps the mix blend better. It makes your bars soft and chewy. When baking, always check if your bars are done. A toothpick works great for this. Stick it in the center of the bars. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are ready. If it’s wet, give them more time. After baking, cool the bars in the pan for about ten minutes. Then move them to a wire rack. This keeps them from getting soggy. How you serve your cookie bars matters. Use a wooden platter for a nice touch. It makes your dessert look inviting. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a sweet look. For extra delight, drizzle melted chocolate over the bars. This makes them even more tempting. Enjoy these tasty treats with friends and family! For the full recipe, check out the details above. {{image_2}} You can make these cookie bars gluten-free. Just swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Many blends work well. Look for ones that have a good mix of flours. This will give your bars a nice texture. Follow the same recipe steps. The taste will still be amazing! If you want vegan cookie bars, it’s simple! Use vegan butter instead of regular butter. For eggs, you can use applesauce or flaxseed meal. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes to thicken. This works as a great egg replacement. The bars will taste just as good! You can also change the flavors of your cookie bars. Try adding spices like cinnamon for a warm taste. You can also mix different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even mint chocolate can add a fun twist. Feel free to get creative! Each variation brings a new taste to enjoy. To keep your chocolate chip cookie bars fresh, use airtight containers. You can store them at room temperature for about three days. If you want them to last longer, put them in the fridge. They will stay good there for about a week. Make sure to let them cool completely before storing. This helps keep their soft texture. Freezing cookie bars is easy and smart for longer shelf life. First, cut the bars into squares. Then, wrap each square in plastic wrap. After that, place the wrapped bars in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. To reheat your cookie bars, use the oven or microwave. If using the oven, set it to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes. This helps restore their chewy texture. If you prefer the microwave, heat for about 10-15 seconds. Watch closely so they don’t overheat. Enjoy your warm, gooey treat again! To check if your chocolate chip cookie bars are done, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the bars. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. You can also look at the edges. They should be golden brown. The center may still look soft but will set as it cools. Remember, it's better to slightly underbake than to overbake. This keeps them chewy and soft. Yes, you can substitute some ingredients in this recipe. If you don't have brown sugar, you can use white sugar instead. It will change the flavor, but the bars will still taste good. You can also swap out the butter for coconut oil. This gives a nice flavor and makes them dairy-free. If you want a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly. To make your chocolate chip cookie bars even more delicious, try adding extra treats. You can mix in caramel bits for a sweet surprise. Chopped candy bars like Snickers or Reese's can add fun flavors. You can also use flavored chips, like butterscotch or peanut butter chips, for variety. Experiment with different nuts or dried fruit for more texture. These additions make the bars unique and tasty! To make delicious chocolate chip cookie bars, we focused on key ingredients, mixing steps, and storage tips. By using simple methods and variations, anyone can create their perfect treat. Remember, measuring flour right and cooling your bars properly are essential for success. Whether you prefer classic, gluten-free, or vegan options, the enjoyment of baking is universal. Follow these steps and tips for tasty results every time. You’ll impress friends and family with your skills!](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/88326a6b-fa01-43d4-bb00-6171d5f3f1c3-768x768.webp)

