Berry-Almond Crumble

Three years ago today, Tommy and I were married.

Like many brides, I was wrapped up in the planning process leading up to the wedding. Swept away by invitations and gorgeous gowns. Overwhelmed by color options. I was getting married in the Cape, by the beach, so blue was a natural choice. But blue was so ordinary. And expected. And that, I did not want. The idea of seashell cakes and blue hydrangeas completely turned me off. However, in perusing flower ideas, I was completely drawn to cranberries in the bouquet. Yet cranberries screamed fall, not August. But blueberries screamed August! After finding a florist who could make my wacky request a reality, I became dubbed the blueberry bride. And then became a tad obsessed. Blueberries in the champagne! Blueberries in the cake! Blueberries as favors! Blueberries EVERYWHERE!

Now, as August rolls around and fresh blueberries are here once again, I smile, remembering how even months after the wedding celebration we would find leftover blueberries hiding in a bag or under a table. August 26 holds a special place in my heart. But so do blueberries. On the eve of our anniversary I could think of no better treat than to savor the sweet taste of blueberries, and remember the day, three year ago, that we became husband and wife.

Berry-Almond Crumble
serves 4-6

filling
2 1/2 c berries (I used blueberries & raspberries)
2 T sugar
1 T flour
1 t cornstarch

topping
1/2 c slivered almonds, chopped
1 1/4 c all-purpose flour
1/2 c packed light brown sugar
1/4 c sugar
1 t cinnamon
1/4 t salt
1/2 c butter, melted (1 stick)
1/4 t vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350F. In a bowl, combine filling ingredients, mixing well. Set aside.

In a large bowl, mix together almonds, flour, brown sugar, sugar, cinnamon and salt. Stir in butter and vanilla, mixing well, until it mixture becomes crumbly.

Spread filling evenly in a 8" square baking dish. Spoon topping over filling, and place in oven. Bake 30 minutes, until topping is golden brown and fruit is bubbling.