When it comes to berries, many of us think of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. But there’s another delicious option that’s often overlooked: the boysenberry! A cross between a blackberry and a raspberry, boysenberries have a unique flavor that’s both sweet and tart. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to impress your friends, a snack to brighten up your day, or a savory sauce to elevate your meals, boysenberries are an excellent choice.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious boysenberry recipes that cater to every occasion. From classic desserts like cheesecakes and cobblers to savory sauces and sweet treats, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
Boysenberry Cheesecake with Graham Cracker Crust
This luscious cheesecake combines the sweetness of boysenberries with a crunchy graham cracker crust, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup boysenberry preserves
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the crust: Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Prepare the cheesecake: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract.
4. Fold in boysenberry preserves.
5. Pour cheesecake batter over prepared crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Boysenberry Jam with Fresh Citrus Zest
This sweet and tangy jam is a perfect blend of boysenberries, citrus zest, and a hint of spice. With its deep purple color and intense flavor, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups boysenberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated orange zest
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pectin (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the boysenberries and remove any stems or debris.
2. In a large pot, combine the boysenberries, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, lemon juice, and cinnamon.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Boysenberry Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day with a deliciously sweet and tangy breakfast treat featuring boysenberries, a sweet-tart hybrid of raspberries, blackberries, and loganberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/4 cup boysenberry preserves
– Maple syrup (for serving)
– Fresh boysenberries or blueberries (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in boysenberry preserves.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for another minute.
9. Serve warm with maple syrup and fresh boysenberries or blueberries if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch, depending on the number of pancakes.
Boysenberry Cobbler with Buttery Biscuit Topping
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of boysenberries wrapped in a crispy, buttery biscuit crust. This classic dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups boysenberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– Buttery Biscuit Topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine boysenberries, granulated sugar, flour, and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes, allowing the berries to release their juice.
3. Roll out Buttery Biscuit Topping to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the dish on a flat surface and pour in the berry mixture.
4. Drizzle with heavy cream and sprinkle confectioners’ sugar over the top.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the biscuit is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Buttery Biscuit Topping:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Mix dry ingredients in a bowl. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Boysenberry Smoothie with Greek Yogurt and Honey
Start your day off right with this refreshing and sweet smoothie, featuring the unique flavor of boysenberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen boysenberries
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the frozen boysenberries, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add in the milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker, colder smoothie.
6. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Boysenberry Tart with Almond Crust
Elevate your dessert game with this sweet and tangy boysenberry tart, featuring a nutty almond crust. This show-stopping treat is perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups almonds
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the filling:
– 2 cups boysenberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Prepare the crust by blending almonds, confectioners’ sugar, and salt in a food processor until finely ground. Add butter and process until mixture forms a ball.
3. Press crust into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. In a separate bowl, mix boysenberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, honey, and salt.
5. Pour filling over baked crust and bake for an additional 40-45 minutes or until filling is set.
6. Let tart cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Boysenberry Muffins with Streusel Topping
Get ready to start your day off right with these sweet and tangy Boysenberry Muffins topped with a crunchy streusel topping. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, these muffins are packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup Boysenberry jam
– 2 large eggs
– Streusel Topping (see below)
Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, Boysenberry jam, and eggs.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Top each muffin with Streusel Topping (see below).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Boysenberry Sorbet with Mint Garnish
This refreshing dessert combines the sweet-tart flavor of boysenberries with the cooling essence of mint, perfect for hot summer days. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create this unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups boysenberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the boysenberries and remove any stems or leaves.
2. Combine the boysenberries, sugar, and water in a blender or food processor.
3. Blend until smooth, then strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and pulp.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once frozen, scoop the sorbet into bowls and garnish with fresh mint leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)
Boysenberry Glazed Chicken Wings
Sweet and tangy boysenberry glaze elevates this simple chicken wing recipe to a whole new level. Perfect for game days, parties, or just a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1 cup boysenberry jam
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together boysenberry jam, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken wings to the glaze mixture; toss until fully coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper; arrange wings in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30 minutes; flip wings halfway through.
6. Remove from oven when cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Boysenberry Compote over Vanilla Ice Cream
Boysenberry Compote over Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of boysenberries with this simple compote recipe, perfect for topping your favorite vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen boysenberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the boysenberries and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the boysenberries, sugar, cornstarch, and water.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the compote has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in the lemon juice and remove from heat.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature over vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious boysenberry compote over vanilla ice cream!
Boysenberry Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts
Boysenberry Salad with Goat Cheese and Walnuts: A Sweet and Savory Delight!
This refreshing summer salad combines the sweetness of boysenberries, the creaminess of goat cheese, and the crunch of walnuts for a delightful side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boysenberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine boysenberries, goat cheese, and mint leaves.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar; toss gently to coat.
3. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the top.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None!
Boysenberry Lemonade with Fresh Mint
This sweet and tangy lemonade gets a boost of flavor from boysenberries and a hint of freshness from mint leaves. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up on a hot day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1 cup boysenberry puree (or substitute with raspberry or blackberry)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until dissolved.
2. Add water and stir until combined.
3. Stir in boysenberry puree until well incorporated.
4. Muddle (gently press) the chopped mint leaves into the mixture using a spoon or muddler.
5. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve over ice and garnish with additional fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Boysenberry Pie with Lattice Crust
This classic pie recipe combines the sweetness of boysenberries with a delicate lattice crust, perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen boysenberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 2 cups pie crust dough (homemade or store-bought)
– Water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine boysenberries, sugar, flour, and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes, allowing the berries to release their juice.
3. Roll out pie crust dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place one piece in a 9-inch pie dish, trimming excess crust.
4. Fill with berry mixture, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Roll out remaining pie crust dough to same thickness. Use pastry cutter or knife to create lattice strips.
6. Arrange lattice strips on top of filling, weaving strips together. Brush with egg wash and crimp edges to seal.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Boysenberry BBQ Sauce for Grilled Meats
Elevate your grilled meats with this sweet and tangy Boysenberry BBQ Sauce, perfect for slathering on ribs, chicken, or pork.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boysenberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine boysenberries, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and simmer over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time:
– None! This sauce is ready when it’s finished cooking.
Usage:
Brush this sweet and tangy BBQ Sauce onto your grilled meats during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking for a flavor boost.
Boysenberry Parfait with Granola Layers
This sweet and tangy dessert is perfect for warm weather or as a refreshing snack any time of the year. Layers of boysenberries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola create a delightful treat that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boysenberries
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup granola
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the honey and vanilla extract.
2. Cut the boysenberries into quarters.
3. Layer the ingredients in a glass or parfait dish:
– Bottom layer: Granola
– Second layer: Boysenberries
– Third layer: Yogurt mixture (mix 1/2 cup yogurt with 1 tablespoon of honey-vanilla mixture)
4. Repeat the layers one more time, ending with a layer of granola on top.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None
Boysenberry Shortcake with Whipped Cream
A sweet and tangy dessert that combines the flavors of boysenberries, shortcake, and whipped cream.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup fresh or frozen boysenberries
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 6-8 shortcake biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare the shortcake biscuits according to package instructions.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. In a saucepan, combine the boysenberries and 1 tablespoon of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries release their juice and the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Split the shortcake biscuits in half horizontally.
5. Spoon some of the warm boysenberry mixture onto the bottom half of each biscuit.
6. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and finish with the top half of the biscuit.
7. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (including preparation time)
Boysenberry Chia Pudding with Coconut Milk
This sweet and tangy pudding is a delicious way to start the day, packed with nutritious chia seeds and boysenberries. The coconut milk adds a creamy texture that complements the fruity flavors perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup boysenberry jam
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and coconut milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together boysenberry jam, honey, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Add the jam mixture to the chia seed mixture and stir well.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the pudding to set.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional boysenberries if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Boysenberry Sauce for Pancakes and Waffles
Elevate your breakfast game with this luscious boysenberry sauce, perfect for drizzling over pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream. This sweet and tangy condiment is a delightful combination of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boysenberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine boysenberries, sugar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the berries have broken down and the mixture has thickened.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and lemon juice until smooth.
4. Add the cornstarch mixture to the saucepan and stir until well combined.
5. Continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and tangy flavor of boysenberries with these 18 delicious recipes! From classic desserts like cheesecake and cobbler, to savory dishes like glazed chicken wings and BBQ sauce, there’s something for every occasion. Start your day with a stack of boysenberry pancakes or muffins, or treat yourself to a decadent boysenberry tart or shortcake. And don’t forget the sweet treats – boysenberry jam, smoothie, and sorbet are just a few ideas to get you started. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a new flavor to try, these recipes are sure to impress!