Blackberry season is upon us. This autumn favourite has been ripening since late August, making early September the perfect time for a weekend of foraging and experimenting with some unique recipes. Hidden among prickly brambles, these quintessential English berries burst with a flavour that’s as versatile in savoury dishes as it is in desserts.
Traditionally, blackberries have found their way into pies and crumbles. But this year, think beyond the classics: here are five contemporary blackberry recipes that bring a little luxury to your table.
Blackberry picking: Five fresh recipes & your foraging guidelines
Where to find blackberries
Blackberries are easy to recognise by their purple black hue and clustered, round texture. You’ll often spot them along country lanes, woodland paths, and overgrown hedgerows as brambles thrive in wild, untended corners.
Take care when picking gloves are a good idea and encourage little helpers to taste a berry or two as they forage, nothing beats the flavour of a ripe one straight from the bush.
Preparing the berries
Store blackberries in an uncovered container in a cool spot for up to two days. Wash them gently just before using: a bowl of cold water with a teaspoon of salt helps dislodge any tiny insects. After a soak, remove stray leaves and bramble thorns, and they’re ready to use.
Recipes:
Blackberry Iced Matcha
This striking layered drink brings together earthy matcha, muddled blackberries, honey, and oat milk over ice. To add extra uniqueness, top with sparkling water, it’s refreshing, antioxidant rich, and very aesthetic, it’s the perfect upgrade from your regular iced latte.
Blackberry & Burrata Flatbread
Swap your usual pizza night for this elegant flatbread. Topped with creamy burrata, juicy blackberries, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, it balances sweet and savoury beautifully. Serve al fresco if the Autumn sun is out or save it for a casual gathering with friends, this one feels effortlessly special.
Smoky Blackberry Margarita
For the adults: a cocktail that fuses juicy blackberries with mezcal’s signature smokiness. A squeeze of lime and dash of agave bring balance, while the deep berry colour makes it as photogenic as it is delicious.
Blackberry Chia Pudding Parfait
For a nourishing breakfast or snack, layer chia pudding with blackberry purée and coconut yoghurt. Finish with granola or cacao chips for crunch. It’s wholesome, plant based, and completely on trend.
5. Blackberry & Thyme Sorbet
Dairy free, light, and fragrant, this sorbet is a refreshing pallet cleanser to finish any meal. Blackberries’ natural tartness pairs perfectly with the subtle earthiness of thyme, making it ideal for those looking for a dessert that isn’t too rich or overly sweet.
Foraging Guidelines:
A reminder to forage responsibly:
- Take only what you need.
- Leave plenty for wildlife and fellow foragers.
- Always make sure you’ve identified plants correctly.
- Be mindful of private land — seek permission if unsure.
- Watch out for thorns!
“Blackberries can add a delicious bite to any recipe, but they also represent something bigger, a chance to slow down, notice the abundance of nature, and bring home flavours that are free, fresh, and full of character.
Whether you enjoy them in a crumble, a cocktail, or something more adventurous, blackberry picking is a reminder of the joys of eating with the seasons.”
— Jemma Baskeyfield, Brand and Marketing Manager at Burleigh Pottery
