Blackberry Bliss

The trail behind my parents' yard is strewn with lush blackberry bushes. Being home reminds me of childhood summers spent collecting them with my sister. We'd walk along the windy paths with our wicker baskets, gathering ripe fruit to bring back to our mother. Together we made jam and pies...cobblers and marmalades. Although I'm fond of the sweet recipes we created, the memories are much sweeter.

Of all the recipes we dreamed up, my favorite is a simple berry crisp. It's a no-fuss dessert that requires few ingredients and minimal effort. Not only does it taste fabulous, but it seems to go with just about everything. Over the years, we've taken it to poolside barbecues, baked it for school carnivals, and served it at holiday parties. 

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup all-purpose gluten-free flour 
• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free oats
• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar 
• 1 stick of butter, slightly softened
• 3-4 cups blackberries

Directions

• Preheat oven to 350°F
• Combine berries, 1/4 cup sugar and 2 T flour in large bowl; gently mix to blend well
• Transfer mixture to a 9x9 baking dish
• Combine remaining flour, oats, and brown sugar in a medium bowl
• Mix butter into oat mixture and form into small clumps
• Sprinkle topping over berry mixture
• Bake for about 45 minutes, until topping is crisped and golden brown
• Let stand 10 minutes before serving