Mary Berry’s Rhubarb Crumble is a delightful dessert, perfect for any occasion, be it a family gathering or a cozy weekend treat. With its tangy rhubarb filling and a golden, crumbly topping, this dish promises a delicious blend of textures and flavors. Suitable for 6-8 servings, this recipe can be prepared within an hour.
What is Mary Berry Rhubarb Crumble?
Mary Berry Rhubarb Crumble is a traditional British dessert featuring a layer of sweet and tart rhubarb under a buttery, crunchy topping. It’s baked until the rhubarb is tender and the topping is golden brown.
Other Popular Recipes
- Delia Smith Rhubarb Crumble
- Mary Berry Rhubarb Crumble With Oats
- Mary Berry Apple And Rhubarb Crumble
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for beginners.
- Seasonal Delight: Utilizes in-season rhubarb, offering the best flavor.
- Versatile Dessert: Can be served either warm or cold, suited to any season.
- Comfort Food: Its warm, comforting qualities make it a crowd-pleaser.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with various fruits and toppings.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Rhubarb Crumble
For this scrumptious dessert, you will need:
Rhubarb Filling:
- 500g fresh rhubarb, trimmed and cut into pieces
- 150g granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Crumble Topping:
- 200g all-purpose flour
- 100g butter, chilled and diced
- 100g brown sugar
Equipment
- Oven: For baking the crumble to perfection.
- Mixing Bowls: For preparing the rhubarb mixture and crumble topping.
- Baking Dish: Approximately 9×13 inches, suitable for a good layering of rhubarb and topping.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure ingredients accurately.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For preparing rhubarb.
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Rhubarb Crumble
Step 1: Preparation: The Rhubarb Filling
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures the oven reaches the right temperature for baking your crumble to perfection.
- Prepare the Rhubarb: In a medium-sized baking dish, combine the rhubarb pieces with granulated sugar, water, and vanilla extract. Mix well so that the rhubarb is evenly coated with the sugar. The addition of vanilla is optional, but it adds a lovely depth of flavor to the tart rhubarb.
- Cooking the Rhubarb: Place the dish in the preheated oven and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the rhubarb is just starting to soften. This pre-cooking helps the rhubarb release its natural juices, which will mingle beautifully with the crumble topping.
Step 2: Making the Crumble Topping
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour. Add the chilled, diced butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This is the key to a light and airy crumble topping.
- Add the Sugar: Stir in the brown sugar to the flour and butter mixture. The sugar not only sweetens the topping but also helps it crisp up during baking.
- Top the Rhubarb: Remove the rhubarb from the oven and sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the top. Make sure to cover all the rhubarb for an even crust.
Step 3: Baking and Serving
- Bake the Crumble: Place the baking dish back in the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Let the crumble cool slightly before serving. This dessert is best enjoyed warm, perhaps with a dollop of fresh cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Rhubarb Crumble?
Mary Berry’s rhubarb crumble is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate this dessert to new heights.
Here are some delightful options:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the warm tartness of the crumble perfectly.
- Custard: Pouring rich, silky custard over your crumble adds a luxurious texture and sweet contrast.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream makes a simple yet delightful topping.
- Greek Yogurt: For a healthier twist, serve the crumble with Greek yogurt to add a tangy freshness.
- Fresh Berries: Scatter a handful of fresh berries for a burst of color and an antioxidant boost.
Expert Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Rhubarb Crumble
Achieving the perfect rhubarb crumble can be as rewarding as it is delicious.
Here are some expert tips to ensure your dessert turns out fantastic every time:
- Use Fresh Rhubarb: Ensure your rhubarb is firm and crisp for the best flavor and texture.
- Keep Butter Cold: For the crumble topping, use cold butter to help achieve a flaky and light texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When preparing the crumble, mix until just combined to keep the texture crumbly.
- Pre-cook Rhubarb: Soften the rhubarb in the oven first to release some of its juices for a better blend of flavors.
- Check for Doneness: The crumble should be golden brown on top; keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking.
Variations of Mary Berry Rhubarb Crumble
Experimenting with the classic Mary Berry Rhubarb Crumble recipe can add delightful new flavors and textures.
Consider these variations for your next baking day:
- Add Nuts: Toss chopped almonds or pecans into the crumble topping for a crunchy texture.
- Mix Fruits: Combine rhubarb with strawberries or apples for a delicious twist.
- Spice It Up: Infuse the filling with ginger or cinnamon for a warm spice note.
- Oat Crumble: Substitute some flour with oats in the topping for a heartier finish.
- Vegan Version: Use coconut oil and a plant-based sweetener to cater to vegan dietary preferences.
How do I Store Mary Berry Rhubarb Crumble Leftovers?
Proper storage of Mary Berry Rhubarb Crumble will help maintain its freshness and flavor.
Here’s how to keep your leftovers delicious:
- Cool Completely: Ensure the crumble is entirely cool before storing to prevent condensation.
- Refrigerate: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Cover Tightly: Use cling film or an airtight lid to keep the crumble fresh and moist.
- Separate Portions: If possible, store servings separately for easy reheating.
How do I Reheat Mary Berry Rhubarb Crumble Leftovers?
Reheating Mary Berry Rhubarb Crumble correctly can make it just as enjoyable as when it was fresh out of the oven.
Follow these tips:
- Oven Method: Warm in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave Briefly: For a quick option, microwave on high for a couple of minutes.
- Maintain Moisture: Cover with foil when reheating in the oven to prevent drying out.
- Serve Warm: Always serve the crumble warm for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 29g
FAQs
What Type of Rhubarb Is Best for Making Crumble?
For the best results in a rhubarb crumble, choose fresh, firm stalks that are bright red in color. These tend to be sweeter and more flavorful, which enhances the overall taste of the dessert.
Can I Use Frozen Rhubarb for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen rhubarb for making crumble. Just ensure to thaw it completely and drain any excess liquid before using it in the recipe to prevent a soggy base.
How Long Does Rhubarb Crumble Take to Bake?
Rhubarb crumble typically takes about 40-45 minutes to bake. You should bake it until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
What Can I Substitute for Butter in the Crumble Topping?
If you need a substitute for butter in the crumble topping, coconut oil is a great alternative. It provides a similar texture and a slight coconut flavor. For a non-dairy option, vegan margarine also works well.
How Can I Make My Rhubarb Crumble Gluten-Free?
To make your rhubarb crumble gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour in the topping with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s a 1:1 baking blend for the best texture.
Is It Necessary to Peel Rhubarb for Making Crumble?
No, it is not necessary to peel rhubarb when preparing it for a crumble. The skin softens during baking and contributes to the vibrant color of the dish. Just ensure the stalks are thoroughly cleaned and trimmed before use.
Final Words
Mary Berry’s rhubarb crumble beautifully showcases how basic ingredients can be transformed into a wonderfully satisfying dessert. Perfect for both novice bakers and experienced chefs, this recipe consistently offers a comforting taste experience. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this timeless dessert today and enjoy the warmth it brings to any meal.
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Ingredients
- Crumble Topping