Name: High Protein Berry Crumble with Nutty Toppings Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489237H43M5S
Total time: PT-489237H43M5S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 oz bag frozen mixed berries; 2 tbsp fruit jam of choice (no sugar added preferred, optional); 1 tsp cornstarch; 1/2 cup gluten-free rolled oats; 1 scoop (30 g) protein powder or 1/4 cup all-purpose flour or spelt (spoon and level); 2 tbsp pecans, finely minced (optional); 3 tbsp natural peanut butter or sunflower seed butter; 3 tbsp unsweetened plant-based milk or plain yogurt; 1 tbsp maple syrup or replace with plant-based milk; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp vanilla paste or extract; Pinch of kosher salt

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 45 reviews

If you’re searching for a delightful breakfast that’s both nourishing and irresistibly delicious, the High Protein Berry Crumble with Nutty Toppings Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe beautifully combines juicy, mixed berries with a crunchy, protein-packed crumble that’s enriched with nutty flavors, making it the perfect way to start your day with energy and satisfaction. Whether you’re a berry lover or looking to add more protein to your mornings, this crumble hits all the marks of comfort food and healthy eating rolled into one warm, inviting dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows six white bowls on a white marbled surface. The top left bowl contains light beige flour with a fine texture. To its right is a bowl full of mixed frozen berries in dark red, black, and purple colors with a frosty texture. Below the flour bowl is a bowl of dry rolled oats with a pale tan color and a rough, flaky texture. In the center is a small bowl with white powder that looks soft and fine. On the bottom right side, there are two bowls: one has smooth light brown peanut butter and the other has dark amber liquid, likely syrup. All bowls are round and smooth, placed in a loose cluster. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with this recipe is a breeze! Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of sweet, tart, soft, and crunchy textures. From vibrant frozen mixed berries to wholesome oats and rich nut butter, every component blends harmoniously to bring out the best flavors and provide a hearty nutritional boost.

Frozen mixed berries (10 oz): The juicy base of this crumble, packed with natural sweetness and antioxidants.
Fruit jam (2 tbsp): Optional but adds an extra layer of fruity sweetness and helps thicken the berry filling.
Cornstarch (1 tsp): A simple thickener that keeps the berry filling lovely and luscious without being runny.
Gluten-free rolled oats (1/2 cup): Provide chewy texture and whole-grain goodness for the crumble topping.
Protein powder (1 scoop, 30 g): Boosts the protein content, making this crumble both satisfying and energizing (can substitute with flour).
Finely minced pecans (2 tbsp): Optional, but they lend a beautifully crunchy, nutty note to the topping.
Natural peanut butter or sunflower seed butter (3 tbsp): Adds creaminess, richness, and a lovely nutty flavor that ties the topping together.
Unsweetened plant-based milk or plain yogurt (3 tbsp): Keeps the crumble moist and tender while enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Maple syrup (1 tbsp): Offers natural sweetness with a touch of depth and caramel notes (can be replaced with extra plant-based milk).
Cinnamon (1/2 tsp): Brings warmth and spice that perfectly complements the berries and nuts.
Vanilla paste or extract (1 tsp): Pops the flavor, adding a sweet, fragrant aroma that makes the crumble irresistible.
Kosher salt (pinch): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the dish.

How to Make High Protein Berry Crumble with Nutty Toppings Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Berry Filling

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F to get it ready for baking. In a mixing bowl, toss the frozen mixed berries with the fruit jam and cornstarch until every berry is nicely coated. This mixture will thicken beautifully during baking, ensuring a juicy but not soggy filling that bursts with fresh flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, minced pecans, peanut butter, maple syrup, plant-based milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until the ingredients merge into small, clumpy bits that will crisp up perfectly as they bake. This nutty topping is where all the texture magic happens, giving you that crunch and wholesome boost you’ll love.

Step 3: Assemble the Crumble

Divide the luscious berry filling evenly between two or three small oven-safe ramekins. Then spoon the crumble mixture over the top, gently pressing it down without compacting it too much. This layering is key to achieving the contrast between the warm, tender fruit and the crisp, protein-packed topping that makes this dish so memorable.

Step 4: Bake Until Crisp

Place the ramekins on a baking tray to catch any drips and slide them into your preheated oven. Bake for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until the topping becomes golden and feels delightfully crisp to the touch. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent over-browning but know that this time frame will give you that perfect, lightly toasted crunch.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow your crumbles to cool for a few minutes so they set just right and are safe to handle. This step enhances the flavors and textures, making each spoonful a comforting experience. Top with a dollop of plant-based yogurt to add creaminess and a cool contrast to the warm crumble – now you’re ready to enjoy a breakfast that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

How to Serve High Protein Berry Crumble with Nutty Toppings Recipe

The image shows a small clear glass bowl filled with two layers of dessert. The bottom layer is a dark purple, shiny fruit mix with a smooth texture, likely berries. The top layer is a thick, crumbly oat topping, light brown with visible oats and a rough texture. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with two more similar bowls blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding the right toppings can elevate the High Protein Berry Crumble with Nutty Toppings Recipe to the next level. Consider fresh mint leaves for a fresh herbal bite, a sprinkle of chia seeds for extra crunch and nutrition, or more chopped nuts for added texture and an appealing presentation.

Side Dishes

This crumble pairs wonderfully with a side of warm almond milk latte or your favorite morning tea to complement the nutty, berry flavors. If you want a more substantial meal, a scoop of cottage cheese or a simple green smoothie balances the sweetness while keeping things light and wholesome.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the crumble in mason jars for a cute grab-and-go option or layer it in clear glass bowls to show off the vibrant berry colors and topping textures. For special occasions, top with edible flowers or a drizzle of almond butter to make it feel extra special and Instagram-worthy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator where they will keep fresh for up to three days. The crumble topping might lose a bit of its crispness but can easily be revived with a brief warm-up in the oven.

Freezing

This High Protein Berry Crumble with Nutty Toppings Recipe freezes beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead breakfast option. Cover the assembled but unbaked ramekins tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze up to one month. When ready, bake straight from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your crumble in the oven at 325°F for 8 to 10 minutes or until heated through and the topping is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this often makes the topping soggy. A little heat and patience will bring back that freshly baked charm effortlessly.

FAQs

Can I use fresh berries instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh berries work just as well and bring an extra vibrant flavor. If using fresh, you might want to reduce or omit the fruit jam to balance the sweetness accordingly.

What protein powder works best in this recipe?

Whey, plant-based, or collagen protein powders all work nicely depending on your dietary preference. Just make sure to use an unflavored or mildly flavored variety to keep the berry and nut flavors front and center.

Is it possible to make this crumble gluten-free?

Yes! Using gluten-free rolled oats and protein powder or flour options like almond or spelt ensures the entire recipe remains gluten-free while still delivering a great texture and flavor.

Can I replace peanut butter with another nut butter?

Definitely. Sunflower seed butter, almond butter, or cashew butter are fantastic alternatives that will complement the nutty topping beautifully while catering to any allergy needs or taste preferences.

How do I make this crumble vegan?

Simply use plant-based protein powder, plant milk, and dairy-free yogurt for serving, and ensure your maple syrup or sweetener of choice is vegan-friendly. This way, the High Protein Berry Crumble with Nutty Toppings Recipe stays fully plant-based and delicious.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about waking up to a warm, wholesome breakfast that feels both indulgent and nourishing. The High Protein Berry Crumble with Nutty Toppings Recipe hits that sweet spot perfectly, combining fresh flavors, textures, and nutrition into one cozy dish. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy your mornings even more with every spoonful.