Berry Apple Crumble ala Sissy

This recipe originated at an Election Day party my sister threw last year. She's very good at throwing things together and creating something amazing. And this crumble she came up with was no different. She reprised the recipe at Thanksgiving, but couldn't exactly remember what she'd done the first time around. That's the trouble with improv cooking--sometimes you hit gold and then can't remember how you got there. However, her second attempt rivaled the first and that is the recipe you'll be reading below. She also graciously agreed to be featured in the pictures. This is probably because she likely knows the five people who will see them.  :)

Ingredients: (These are a bit loose, so feel free to play around and add more or less of anything to your own taste.)

1 bag fresh cranberries

2 small containers blueberries

4 medium apples

1/2 cup walnuts (optional)

1 Tbsp cinnamon

1/4 - 1/3 cup sugar (I'd keep it on the low end and add more if you like your desserts sweeter.)

1/4 cup plus 1 Tbsp brown sugar

1/2 cup plus 1/4 cup dry oats

3 Tbsp plus 1/4 butter, softened

Directions:

1. Mix all the fruit together in a large bowl. Add the walnuts, if desired. Add the 1/4 cup each of white and brown sugar. This is where you can add more if you'd like the fruit sweeter.  

2. Mix the cinnamon and dry oats into the fruit and sugar.

3. Add 3 Tablespoons of butter, cut into smaller pieces and combine well. 

4. In a separate smaller bowl, crumb together the 1/4 cup butter, 1/4 cup oats, and 1 Tbsp brown sugar. (You can also substitute flour for the oats if you want a smoother topping.)

5. Spread fruit and oat mixture in lightly greased casserole or baking dish. Sprinkle the crumble over the top. 

6. Bake at 350 for about 45 minutes. When the crumble topping is lightly browned, it's done. 

This dessert tastes amazing just on its own, but add a little ice cream or whipped cream to make it super decadent. Also, play around. I think adding a little extra spice to the fruit and oats would be a nice enhancement. Try ginger or maybe even a little clove. Let me know if you add your own twist!