100 Berry Recipes for Spring

For my mother's birthday, I made this strawberry pie recipe instead of a cake. Since it was mid-May in Oklahoma, the berries were absolutely perfect. It was a memorable occasion for the whole family. —Josh Carter, Birmingham, Alabama

Make the most of angel food cake, pie filling and whipped topping by creating this light impressive dessert that doesn't keep you in the kitchen for hours. It's the perfect way to end a summer meal. —Carol Johnson, Tyler, Texas

This deliciously different salsa is versatile, fresh-tasting and colorful. People are surprised to see a salsa made with strawberries, but it's excellent over grilled chicken and pork and as a dip with corn chips. -Jean Giroux, Belchertown, Massachusetts

I love serving this blueberry scone recipe to visiting friends and family. I always make sure a have a few in the freezer. Just pop a frozen scone in the microwave for 20 seconds or so. —Joan Francis, Spring Lake, New Jersey

We live in blueberry country, and this pie is a perfect way to showcase the luscious berries. A neighbor first made this for us several years ago. It’s become our iconic summer treat. —R. Ricks, Kalamazoo, Michigan

I grew up helping my mom make a lot in our farmhouse kitchen; roasts, soups, pies and strawberry shortcakes. This sunny strawberry shortcake recipe brings back memories of family summers on the farm. —Janet Becker, Anacortes, Washington

My dad would always stop the car on the side of the road in Maine and say, "I smell blueberries." He had a pail ready. Then Mom would bake the wild berries in a cornmeal crust to make this homey tart. —Priscilla Gilbert, Indian Harbour Beach, Florida

This perfectly spreadable blueberry jam boasts a beautiful dark color with a sweet, seasonal flavor. —Karen Haen, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin

I always get compliments when I bring this attractive and tasty trifle out of the refrigerator. Not only does it serve a big group nicely, I can make it ahead of time, too. —Lucille Belsham, Fort Fraser, British Columbia

When our family of 10 goes blueberry picking, we have a bounty of blueberries in no time. We especially enjoy them in these melt-in-your-mouth pancakes topped with a satisfying blueberry sauce. —Paula Hadley, Somerville, Louisiana

We like to relax on the back porch with glasses of my slush after a long, hot day. Strawberries and watermelon blend up with lemon juice and sugar for an instant refresher. —Patty Howse, Great Falls, Montana

Blueberries and chicken may seem like a strange combination, but prepare to be pleasantly surprised. I add a sprinkling of minced fresh basil as the finishing touch. —Susan Marshall, Colorado Springs, Colorado

When our son was growing up, this was one of his favorite breakfasts. I've used low-fat ingredients in the past with good results, too.—Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

This loaf is chock-full of blueberries—two whole cups! When you pour the vanilla sauce over the bread, it makes it moist--almost like a pudding. I suggest serving a robust cup of coffee with this delicious treat. —Sue Davis, Wausau, Wisconsin

Garden-fresh rhubarb is put to great use in this easy recipe. It's wonderful with ice cream. —Barbara Foss, Waukesha, Wisconsin

In the summer, we can get beautiful, plump blueberries, which I use in this easy-to-make coffee cake. I like to freeze extra blueberries so I have them available anytime I want this treat. —Anne Krueger, Richmond, British Columbia

We planted strawberries a few years ago and these tangy-sweet frozen yogurt pops are my very favorite treats to make with them! The options are endless. Try using other yogurt flavors like lemon, raspberry or blueberry. You may also substitute your favorite herb for the rosemary—or simply omit it. —Carmell Childs, Ferron, Utah

With the addition of vanilla yogurt, this basic muffin turns out moist and tender. It’s easy and quick to prepare. My husband loves these muffins for breakfast on mornings when he is rushing out the door. —Cindi Budreau, Neenah, Wisconsin

Creamy and airy, this gorgeous dessert is the perfect special something for a summer dinner party. I love the mix of smooth strawberry cheesecake and crumbly chocolate crust—and how elegant it looks on the table. —Kathy Berger, Dry Ridge, Kentucky

Blueberries are a fun surprise in this salad. I received the recipe from a co-worker's wife, and it's become one of my favorites. —Heidi Gilleland, Lees Summit, Missouri

Need to bring a dish to pass this weekend? This make-ahead strawberry pretzel salad will disappear quickly at any potluck. —Aldene Belch, Flint, Michigan

This cake is inventive and yet familiar. Be sure to use a springform pan; otherwise you cannot invert the cake or remove it from the pan. If it breaks while you're transferring the cake to the serving plate, just push it back together and press gently. —Stella Ohanian, Porter Ranch, California

This fruit smoothie recipe is one of my favorites. The yummy blend just might take you back to soda-fountain days…but it's a nutritious low-fat alternative to traditional malts, shakes and sodas. —Mary LaJoie, Glenoma, Washington

My family is always happy to see this fruit and veggie salad on the table. If strawberries aren’t available, substitute mandarin oranges and dried cranberries. —Irene Keller, Kalamazoo, Michigan

A refreshing lemon filling and fresh blueberries give this sunny dessert sensation plenty of color. Don't worry about heating up the oven—this trifle doesn't require baking. —Ellen Peden, Houston, Texas

That classic spring treat—strawberry shortcake—takes on a wonderful new twist with this recipe. Strawberry gelatin and strawberries liven up each pretty slice of this lovely layered strawberry poke cake that's made from a convenient boxed mix. —Mary Jo Griggs, West Bend, Wisconsin

I fix this breakfast cake for my co-workers often. It's very simple and can be prepared the night before. The blueberries and sausage are such a nice sweet-salty flavor combo. —Peggy Frazier, Indianapolis, Indiana

When it starts warming up in Colorado, my kids ask for ice-cold treats. This rosy pink cream float is one of our household favorites. —Crystal Jo Bruns, Iliff, Colorado

With a crisp biscuit topping and warm blueberry filling, this home-style cobbler sure doesn't taste light—but it is! —Mary E. Relyea, Canastota, New York

When it’s time to impress family and friends, we serve barbecued chicken garnished with strawberries. It’s easier than anyone would ever guess. —Bonnie Hawkins, Elkhorn, Wisconsin

This is my favorite blueberry cheesecake recipe, which I often make for family get-togethers. —Cathy Medley, Clyde, Ohio

I always feel like a French chef when I serve these pretty crepes. Although they take a little time to prepare, they're well worth the effort. My guests are always impressed. —Debra Latta, Port Matilda, Pennsylvania

My husband is a fourth-grade teacher, and he incorporates monthly baking projects into the curriculum. His recipe for blueberry cornbread is a class favorite. —Jennifer Martin, Martinez, California

After picking strawberries for the first time, I developed this fruity, spreadable butter. Try making other fruit spreads using raspberries or blackberries, or a seedless jam like apricot, my favorite. —Julie Herrera-Lemler, Rochester, Minnesota

I'm not typically a huge fan of summer corn, but when it comes to this sweet, salty, refreshing salad, I can't put my fork down. I find that grilling the corn inside of the husk makes it easier to remove any corn silk left behind on the cobs. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia

Here's a tasty twist on the classic mimosa. To make this refreshing drink friendly for kids or mamas-to-be, substitute lemon-lime soda or ginger ale for the champagne. —Kelly Maxwell, Plainfield, Illinois

Absolutely no one will believe how easy this beautiful treat is to make! The quick crust boasts just a hint of cinnamon. It's a simply wonderful, cool summer dessert. —Shirley Foltz, Dexter, Kansas

A sweet, crispy topping highlights these tender muffins that are filled with two favorite spring foods, rhubarb and strawberries. They're perfect for a brunch or a grab-and-go breakfast. —Audrey Stallsmith, Hadley, Pennsylvania

Since our area has an annual blueberry festival, my daughters and I are always looking for great new berry recipes to enter in the cooking contest. These lovely yummy bars won a blue ribbon one year. —Debbie Ayers, Baileyville, Maine

Light and refreshing, this dreamy, creamy dessert is perfect for steamy afternoons. Great for scooping into cones, the frozen fluff won't melt as fast as regular ice cream. Change up the recipe with a variety of frozen berries or fruits. —Debra Goforth, Newport, Tennessee

For a quick breakfast, Norna makes the pancake while fixing supper the night before, then cuts it into squares. The next morning, she tops them with butter and syrup before placing them in the microwave. This innovative way to make pancakes takes most of the fuss out of making breakfast. Norna Detig - Lindenwood, Illinois

After thinking about creating this salad for some time, this past spring I used my homegrown strawberries and fresh tarragon to do a little experimenting. It didn't take me very long to come up with a winner! My husband enjoyed my creation as much as I did and we can't wait for strawberry season to come around again! —Sue Gronholz, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin

This showstopping pie can be decorated to fit any season. I like to make stars for Independence Day, leaves for fall, hearts for Valentine's Day or even flowers for spring. Have fun with it! —Kerry Nakayama, New York, New York

When I serve quinoa with strawberries and key lime pie yogurt, friends scrape the bottom of the parfait glass to get every delectable bite. —Bev Jones, Brunswick, Missouri

I had company coming and needed a new breakfast casserole, so I made up this nutty idea using waffles. My neighbors and husband were happy taste testers. —Joan Hallford, Fort Worth, Texas

You won’t believe how tender these rich, buttery scones are. The lemony glaze is a lip-smacking treat! —Kathy Harding, Richmond, Missouri

After sampling this flavor at an ice cream stand, I kept trying to duplicate it until it was just right. This blueberry cheesecake ice cream is a hit! —Melissa Symington, Neche, North Dakota

Three simple ingredients mixed together and spread into a graham crust make magic while your freezer does the all the work. Make this pie ahead and freeze it overnight or even longer. Feel free to vary the fruit if you'd like! —Debbie Glasscock, Conway, Arkansas

My mother-in-law made a slump of wild blueberries with dumplings and served it warm with a pitcher of farm cream. We’ve been eating slump for nearly 60 years! —Eleanore Ebeling, Brewster, Minnesota

This mouthwatering entree is gorgeous. Whenever I serve it, everyone thinks I'm a culinary genius. They'd never guess how easy it is to prepare. —Lisa Speer, Palm Beach, Florida

It's fun to make these blueberry cookies at the height of the season when folks are looking for tasty ways to serve that juicy fruit. A hint of cinnamon adds a special touch. —Elaine Gelina, Ladson, South Carolina

The ever-popular combination of strawberries and chocolate shines in these rich, decadent truffles. I often double the recipe to give as gifts. —Pat Habiger, Spearville, Kansas

A dollop of whipped topping adds a nice finishing touch to this satisfying crumble. Sometimes I drizzle a little flavored coffee creamer on top instead of the whipped topping. —Nancy Sousley, Lafayette, Indiana

More of a dessert than breakfast food, these luscious pancakes really know how to showcase the darlings of summertime—strawberries! Both the sauce and cream cheese filling feature fresh, ripe berries. —Shirley Warren, Thiensville, Wisconsin

A neighboring camper made a bread so tempting, I had to ask for the details. Here’s my version, best enjoyed with a steaming cup of coffee by the campfire. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

Here's a twist on a classic dessert that highlights another flavor combo my husband and I love: strawberries and white chocolate. Lighten it up if you'd like—I've had good luck with light nondairy whipped topping and reduced-fat cream cheese. —Anna Ginsberg, Chicago, Illinois

This creamy pie gets dressed up with berries to make a showstopping display at any Fourth of July party or summer get-together. It's as pretty as it is tasty! —Kimberly McFarland, Broken Arrow, Oklahoma

At lunch one day, a friend told me about a steak salad she'd had at a party. It sounded so fantastic I had to try it for myself. My family would eat it nonstop if we could. Can't seem to get enough of that tangy dressing! —Alma Winberry, Great Falls, Montana

Blueberry and lime are two of my favorite flavors, so I added blueberries to my favorite mixed drink! This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled. To make simple syrup, combine 1/2 cup sugar and 1/2 cup water and cook over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved. Simple syrup will keep in the fridge for a week.—Michele Tungett, Rochester, Illinois

My easy-to-make puff pastry crust is topped with a soft-set pudding layer that has a hint of strawberry flavor. It needs to chill for at least an hour, so it’s your new go-to for a make-ahead brunch! —Candace Richter, Stevens Point, Wisconsin

A local blueberry grower shared this recipe with me, and it's the best breakfast dish I've ever tasted. With the cream cheese and berry combination, this blueberry french toast casserole reminds me of dessert. —Patricia Axelsen, Aurora, Minnesota

Eat these pretty treats as is, or crush them into a bowl of strawberries and whipped cream. Readers of my blog, utry.it, went nuts when I posted that idea.—Amy Tong, Anaheim, California

These delicious ice-pops can be made with raspberries or blackberries. The rosemary sprig and lemon rind brings another layer of taste. They're quick, easy and kid-friendly. —Gloria Bradley, Naperville, Illinois

Every spring, we had strawberries and rhubarb on our farm outside Seattle. These fruity hand pies remind me of those times and of Grandma Winnie’s baking. —Shawn Carleton, San Diego, California

I saw a bar recipe using apple and lemon peel on a muffin mix box. I tried it from scratch with shredded zucchini and fresh blueberries instead. It’s a nifty combo. —Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, Oregon

For a creative way to use up tomatoes from you garden, make this spread. The strawberry give it a fruity flavor everyone will enjoy.—Myra Innes, Auburn, Kansas

Holiday breakfasts would not be the same at our house without this delicious coffee cake. Whenever I take it anywhere, everyone raves about it and wants the recipe. —Susan Walschlager, Anderson, Indiana

You'll love this smooth and creamy gelato with bright strawberry flavor and just a hint of sea salt and honey. —Shelly Bevington, Hermiston, Oregon

For a good friend moving to L.A., I made a blueberry goat cheese pie. Bake one, share it and start a precious memory. —Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, Wisconsin

A fruity filling and fluffy coconut topping truly make these strawberry oatmeal bars one of a kind. They really dress up my trays of Christmas goodies. —Flo Burtnett, Gage, Oklahoma

Fresh jalapenos and blueberry quick jam make the perfect blend of sweet and spicy in this special cornbread. Once you eat one piece, you won't be able to resist going back for another. —Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia

The combination of peppery arugula, sweet strawberries and robust feta cheese may sound unusual, but one bite wins over taste buds.—Carala Horne, Meridian, Mississippi

The wild blueberries on our property spark recipe ideas. When my daughter and I made this ice cream at a Girl Guide meeting, it was well received. Even today, our 10 children, 19 grandkids and 4 great-grandchildren think it tastes great. —Alma Mosher, Mohannes, New Brunswick

I love this recipe because on Sunday mornings I like to take it easy but I still want my family to have a nice breakfast. This allows me to sleep in and feel like I'm a great mom at the same time. Win!—Alynn Hansen, Mona, Utah

A sweet and spicy combo is the perfect accent for meaty chops. With a fresh green veggie on the side, this is a hearty summer meal. It’s easy, yet impressive enough to serve to company. —Laura Davis, Chincoteague, Virginia

Mom's yummy cobbler is a truly wonderful finale to any meal. This sweet-tart family favorite is chock-full of berries and rhubarb, and has a thick easy-to-make crust. —Susan Emery, Everett, Washington

I enjoy serving these fruity scones for baby and bridal showers. They're a bit lower in fat than other scones, so you can indulge with little guilt. —Jacqueline Hendershot, Orange, California

I enjoy using strawberries in a variety of ways, including featuring them in this pretty, sweet-tart dressing. —Carolyn McMunn, San Angelo, Texas

"What a flavor!" That's what I hear most often after folks try this pie I invented one day when I didn't have enough peaches to fill the crust. —Sue Thumma, Shepherd, Michigan

My husband loved his Mamaw's strawberry cake recipe. He thought no one could duplicate it. I made it, and it’s just as scrumptious as he remembers. —Jennifer Bruce, Manitou, Kentucky

This blueberry pancakes recipe is a favorite in our home. My kids don’t even realize how healthy it is! —Kelly Reinicke, Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin

Make cookie trays extra special with these mini pie look-alikes stuffed with sweet strawberry preserves. Yum! —Amy Sauerwalt, Columbia, Maryland

We love adding grilled chicken to our salads in the summer, but the real star here is the vinaigrette made with blueberry preserves and maple syrup. It goes great with a fresh baguette and a frosty glass of minted lemonade. —Susan Gauthier, Falmouth, Maine

Peak-of-freshness strawberries make this thinner, easy drink a summer staple. —Elizabeth Johnson, Greenville, South Carolina

This blueberry coffee cake smells wonderful as it bakes and tastes even better. The moist cake filled with juicy berries and crunchy pecans is a family favorite. It never lasts long at our house. —Lori Snedden, Sherman, Texas

Garnish the top of this strawberry cake with fresh strawberries to hint at the flavor of this pretty pink cake before you cut it—or let it be a surprise! —Pam Anderson, Billings, Montana

This tangy Strawberry Rhubarb Jam recipe is a favorite with my family. They'll put it on almost anything, but especially like it on muffins or buttermilk biscuits. —Deb Kooistra, Kitchener, Ontario

Of all the quick breads we had growing up, this beautiful lemon blueberry bread is the best! The citrus glaze adds a lustrous finish and locks in moisture. —Julianne Johnson, Grove City, Minnesota

Salmon and basil take a sweet new approach when topped off with a relish of strawberries, honey and pepper. —Stacy Mullens, Gresham, Oregon

When you're short on time but long for cheesecake, try this fruity dessert. Ricotta and cream cheeses give every bit as much flavor as cheesecake without the effort. Instead of making individual servings, you could layer the ingredients in a glass serving bowl. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

I sometimes call these my Triple Lemon Whammy cupcakes because they take full advantage of vibrant citrus flavor. A healthy dollop of strawberry jam in the frosting along fresh strawberries really puts this dessert over the top! — Emma Sisk, Plymouth, Minnesota

With only five ingredients, this delightful dessert is so easy to prepare. Just halve peaches and sprinkle with fresh blueberries and a brown sugar mixture. Because they're grilled in foil, there are no messy dishes to wash. —Sharon W. Bickett, Chester, South Carolina

It's easy to love this pretty salad topped with strawberries and sliced almonds. With just a few ingredients, it's loaded with flavor. —Renae Rossow, Union, Kentucky

In Michigan there are lots of blueberries, so I enjoy trying recipes with them, like a jumbo version of a classic muffin. — Jackie Hannahs, Brethren, Michigan

People rave about this luscious strawberry pie. Best of all, it’s a low-sugar sensation that you won’t feel one bit guilty to eat. —Lou Wright, Rockford, Illinois

Layers of colorful fruit submerged in a fizzy, sweet beverage make this a kid-friendly sipper that gets two thumbs up. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

No matter where I take this dessert, the bowl is emptied in minutes. It's fun to make because everyone oohs and ahhs over how pretty it is. —Kim Waterhouse, Randolph, Maine

We love homemade oatmeal, and this delicious recipe is delightful. It's so delicious it could be eaten for dessert. — Lesley Robeson, Casper, Wyoming

My husband and I discovered this nutty French toast at a bed & breakfast in Arkansas. We bought their cookbook so we could make it at home. We've changed it over the years, but it still reminds us of that lovely inn.—Lynn Daniel, Dallas, Texas

Plump blueberries and a fluffy topping star in this pretty, refreshing salad. My mom's blueberry salad was served at every holiday and celebration. Now my grandchildren look forward to sampling it at holidays. —Sharon Hoefert, Greendale, Wisconsin