Crunch
A warm, fruity crumble with a buttery topping, perfect for family dessert. Easily customizable with your favorite fruit fillings and served with whipped topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the egg and margarine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the crumb mixture over the fruit filling in a baking dish.
- Bake at 450°F for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Serve warm or cold with a dollop of Cool Whip topping.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the margarine with butter. You can also use whole wheat flour for added nutrition. If fresh fruit is available, you can make your own fruit filling with mixed berries or peaches. Adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the fruit used. Sifting the dry ingredients helps to incorporate air, making the topping lighter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm or cold with a dollop of Cool Whip topping. This dish pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience. It also complements a light salad, such as the 2 Layer Raspberry Salad Or Dessert, for a balanced meal. Enjoy it as a delightful finish to a summer barbecue or family gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. This dessert can also be enjoyed cold, which enhances the fruit flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunch contains roughly 398 calories, with 5g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (43% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2495mg per serving (108% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen fruit filling instead of canned?
Yes, you can use frozen fruit filling! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using it. This will help maintain the texture of the crumb topping and prevent it from becoming soggy. Adjust the baking time if necessary, as frozen fruit may require a few extra minutes in the oven.
What can I use instead of margarine?
Butter is the best substitute for margarine, providing a richer flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative can work well. Just ensure that it’s softened for easy mixing. This flexibility makes the recipe suitable for various dietary preferences.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch and nuttiness to the topping. Stir in about 1/2 cup of your favorite nuts with the dry ingredients before mixing in the egg and margarine. This addition makes the dish even more satisfying and is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).