Warm Strawberry Crisp

Name: Warm Strawberry Crisp
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 cup rolled oats; ¾ cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; ½ cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats

I absolutely love making Warm Strawberry Crisp on chilly evenings; it's my go-to dessert for hosting friends or just indulging myself. The sweet, juicy strawberries combined with a crispy, buttery topping create a delightful contrast that warms my soul. I can hardly resist the aroma wafting through the kitchen as it bakes, and the crispy oats add a lovely texture. Served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it truly becomes an irresistible treat that I can’t wait to share with everyone.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-27T10:34:28.723Z

When I first tried making Warm Strawberry Crisp, I was amazed by how simple the recipe was, yet how impressive it turned out. I used fresh strawberries, which definitely made a difference in flavor and aroma. The secret to a perfect topping is to mix in a bit of brown sugar, as it brings out a deeper caramel flavor that perfectly complements the tartness of the strawberries.

One of my favorite moments is when I serve it warm straight from the oven. The crispy topping contrasts beautifully with the bubbling, juicy strawberries, making each bite a heavenly experience. I always add a dollop of cream on top—it really elevates the dessert and creates a deliciously comforting feel. Trust me, this is a crowd-pleaser!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh strawberries create a mouthwatering, juicy filling
Crispy oat topping that adds delightful texture
Easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends

Perfecting the Strawberry Filling

Using the freshest strawberries is key to achieving a vibrant, flavorful crisp. Look for berries that are firm and fragrant, as these will provide the best sweetness and juiciness. When slicing, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Mixing the strawberries with both granulated and brown sugar not only enhances their natural sweetness but also introduces a subtle caramel flavor that plays beautifully against the tartness of the fruit.

Adding cornstarch is crucial for thickening the juices released during baking. If you prefer a firmer filling, you can increase the cornstarch to 1.5 tablespoons. For a twist, consider incorporating a splash of balsamic vinegar or a handful of sliced peaches to the strawberry mixture for added depth.

Creating the Ideal Crisp Topping

The topping is where you can let your creativity shine! The combination of rolled oats and flour creates a satisfying crunch, while melted butter ensures a rich flavor throughout. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, substitute coconut oil for butter; just be aware this will impart a subtle coconut flavor. When mixing the topping, make sure to avoid overworking it, as you want it to remain crumbly for that delightful texture.

Feel free to experiment with spices beyond cinnamon—nutmeg or a pinch of ginger can offer an exciting new flavor profile. Once your topping is ready, it should look like wet sand; this is the ideal texture for achieving a perfectly crisp exterior during baking.

Ingredients

For the Crisp

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Topping

1 cup rolled oats
¾ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
½ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a large bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix gently until the strawberries are well coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased 8-inch baking dish.

Make the Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the ingredients are well mixed and crumbly.

Assemble and Bake

Evenly sprinkle the topping over the strawberry mixture. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the strawberries are bubbling.

Serve

Let the crisp cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in a handful of sliced almonds or chopped walnuts with the topping.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Warm Strawberry Crisp experience, serve it with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. The cool creaminess balances the warmth of the crisp beautifully. For a rustic touch, sprinkle some chopped fresh mint or basil over the top before serving to add a refreshing twist and a pop of color.

For those looking for a more indulgent treat, drizzle your serving with warm chocolate sauce or caramel. This adds an additional decadent layer that complements the sweet strawberries and crunchy topping perfectly.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have leftovers (though that’s rare!), store the cooled crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or pop the whole dish back into a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to restore its crispy topping.

For make-ahead options, you can prepare the strawberry filling a day in advance and store it separately in the fridge. The topping can also be assembled ahead of time and kept in an airtight container at room temperature. Just combine them right before baking to ensure the topping retains its crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries; just be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

→ What can I serve with Warm Strawberry Crisp?

It pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the strawberry mixture and topping separately, store them in the fridge, and assemble just before baking.