Hearth Berry Blend Dessert (Printable)

Fresh berries combined with citrus and honey create a vibrant, refreshing summer treat.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Berries

01 - 1 cup strawberries, hulled and quartered
02 - 1 cup blueberries
03 - 1 cup raspberries
04 - 1 cup blackberries

→ Citrus & Sweetener

05 - 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
06 - 1 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
07 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

→ Garnish

08 - 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped (optional)

# How-To Steps:

01 - Place the strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries in a large mixing bowl.
02 - In a small bowl, whisk together honey or maple syrup, lemon zest, and lemon juice until blended.
03 - Pour the citrus-sweetener mixture over the berries.
04 - Gently toss the berries with the dressing until they are evenly coated.
05 - Sprinkle chopped mint leaves over the berries if desired.
06 - Serve immediately or refrigerate up to 2 hours before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It takes less time than brewing coffee and uses whatever berries you have on hand.
  • The lemon zest adds a brightness that makes even average berries taste like they came from a farmers market.
  • Its versatile enough to serve as breakfast, dessert, or a snack without any guilt.
02 -
  • Dont skip drying the berries after washing, wet fruit dilutes the dressing and makes everything taste watery.
  • Toss with a feather-light touch, especially if youre using raspberries, they collapse under pressure and turn the whole bowl pink.
  • Taste a berry before you sweeten, sometimes theyre so ripe you only need half the honey.
03 -
  • Use a microplane for the lemon zest and stop before you hit the white part, thats where the bitterness hides.
  • If your berries are tart, add an extra teaspoon of honey and taste as you go, sweetness should enhance not overpower.
  • Chill your serving bowl for ten minutes before assembling, it keeps everything cool and refreshing on hot days.