Mixed Berry Patch Crumb Bars

You guys.

The husband and I joined the rest of the world last week and got smartphones.  But only by necessity.  His phone literally would not close, nor charge.  Kind of a problem.  And since we're on the same plan, we'll I got a new one too.  I'm still trying to figure it all out.

But hey - you can now follow me on Instagram!  Find me at sweetsavoryeats.  You follow me, I'll follow you.  Mmm-k?

On Saturday the Little Man and I headed out on a date - to the strawberry patch to pick those juicy buggers and later for lunch.  He was in love.  Does anyone else notice a difference in their child's behavior when they are just one-on-one with you?  I sure do.

He had so much fun.  I'm pretty sure we got a steal on those strawberries as every time I looked back he was eating one, claiming "It was squished, so I have to eat it Mom".  Yeah, uh-huh.  I also kept hearing "these strawberries are delicious".  My cup runneth over.

The whole reason I'm talking about these berries, is because of this dessert.  I used mixed berries {blueberries, raspberries and strawberries}in this, but you could use just all strawberries.  Whatever tickles your fancy.

Mixed Berry Patch Crumb Bars

{Print this Recipe!}

1 1/2 c. flour

3/4 c. sugar, plus 1 T. for filling

1/2 t. baking powder

1/8 t. salt

1/4 t. cinnamon

1/2 c. shortening

1 egg, lightly beaten

1 t. almond extract

1/2 T. cornstarch

2 c. fresh or frozen berries

In a large bowl, combine flour, 3/4 c. sugar, baking powder, baking powder, salt and cinnamon.  Cut in shortening until mixture resembles crumbs.  Stir in eggs and extract.  Press two-thirds of this into an 8x8 greased baking dish.

In another bowl combine fruit, cornstarch and 1 T. sugar and gently toss.  Spoon this over the crust.  Sprinkle with the remaining crumb mixture.  Bake at 375 degrees for 35-45 minutes or until bubbly and golden.  Cool on a wire rack, then cut into bars.  Store in the fridge.

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I'm taking the kids to meet their grandparents tomorrow and they'll be staying with them for a few days.  We have limited daycare this week due to vacations, and I have a work event, so it will help us to have them enjoying life with them.

Although we will miss them like crazy.

But with that extra time I do plan on being productive - not only around the house, but with this blog.  I need to find a graphic designer to help with some design work {suggestions anyone?}, work on a media kit {which I've never tackled} and the most important thing - get busy in the kitchen!