Delicious English Bilberries Casserole with Crunchy Topping
(0 Reviews)
Ingredients
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400 grams bilberries
(Fresh or frozen bilberries, thawed if frozen)
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100 grams Granulated sugar
(Can adjust sweetness to taste)
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1 tbsp Lemon juice
(Freshly squeezed)
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80 grams Rolled oats
(Use old-fashioned rolled oats for best texture)
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60 grams All-purpose flour
(Helps bind the topping)
-
70 grams Brown sugar
(Light or dark brown sugar for rich flavor)
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75 grams Unsalted butter
(Cold and cubed)
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1 tsp Ground cinnamon
(Adds warmth and aroma)
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1 tsp Vanilla extract
(Pure vanilla extract preferred)
(Fresh or frozen bilberries, thawed if frozen)
(Can adjust sweetness to taste)
(Freshly squeezed)
(Use old-fashioned rolled oats for best texture)
(Helps bind the topping)
(Light or dark brown sugar for rich flavor)
(Cold and cubed)
(Adds warmth and aroma)
(Pure vanilla extract preferred)
Nutrition
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 180g)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 65 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Sugar: 35 g
- Sodium: 15 mg
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
- Calcium: 35 mg
- Iron: 2.2 mg
Instructions
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1 - Prepare fruit mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine bilberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently and set aside to macerate.
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2 - Make crumble topping:
In another bowl, mix rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon (if using), and vanilla extract (if using). Add cubed cold butter and rub with fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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3 - Assemble casserole:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Butter a medium baking dish and evenly spread the bilberry mixture inside. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the fruit.
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4 - Bake the casserole:
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp, and the bilberries are bubbling beneath.
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5 - Cool and Serve:
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm with cream, custard, or vanilla ice cream.
In a mixing bowl, combine bilberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently and set aside to macerate.
In another bowl, mix rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon (if using), and vanilla extract (if using). Add cubed cold butter and rub with fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Butter a medium baking dish and evenly spread the bilberry mixture inside. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the fruit.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp, and the bilberries are bubbling beneath.
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm with cream, custard, or vanilla ice cream.
More About: Delicious English Bilberries Casserole with Crunchy Topping
Bilberries Casserole - A Classic English Delight
Bilberries Casserole is a beloved British dessert that highlights the delicate, tart bilberries native to the United Kingdom. Similar to blueberries but smaller and with a richer taste, bilberries are packed with antioxidants and have a distinct, earthy flavor. This casserole perfectly balances their natural tartness with a sweet, crunchy oat topping that offers a comforting contrast in texture.
Cultural Significance
Bilberries have historically been foraged from woodlands and hills across Britain, ingrained in traditional English cooking and often used in desserts like tarts, jams, and, of course, casseroles. This recipe honors those roots by creating a dish that showcases simple, seasonal ingredients combining to produce a classic warming pudding.
Preparation Notes
Using fresh or thawed frozen bilberries works well; the choice depends on season and availability. Macerating the fruit intensifies their flavor and softens them for an ideal texture. For the topping, rubbing cold unsalted butter into the oat-flavored crumb ensures the final bake is delightfully crisp and golden.
Optional spices such as cinnamon and vanilla are inspired by English desserts’ tradition to infuse warmth and depth. Serving with cream or ice cream provides a creamy counterpoint recommended for an authentic comforting experience.
Tips and Variations
- For a nuttier topping, incorporate chopped walnuts or almonds.
- Substitute bilberries with wild blueberries or a mixed berry blend if unavailable.
- Adjust sugar depending on berry sweetness and personal preference.
This recipe embodies simplicity with finesse—a true taste of English countryside dessert comfort.
