The rich, deep, purple-black tones of the blackberry are delicious in pies, crumbles, ice cream, fools, jams and summer puddings and are a natural partner for the first of the cooking apples.

Blackberry fans, this one is for you. The saucy, not-too-sweet berry filling boasts a pure blackberry flavor and the cinnamon in the oat topping provides the perfect contrast to the fruit.

In a food processor or blender ... with the remaining 1⁄2 pint of whole blackberries and mix well. Pour the blackberry filling on top of the prepared crust. Bake for 10 minutes.

Embrace the summer blackberry season with these five irresistible ... hazelnuts and cocoa in a food processor or blender and blending until the mixture resembles fine sand. Add the dates, 1 ...

Place the blackberries and lemons in a nonreactive pot with the pectin and butter, and bring to a strong boil. Add half the sugar. When the mixture shows further signs of beginning a second boil ...

My top pick for the most versitile condiment of the year is this 3-ingredient simple blackberry syrup. Its a joy to use in cocktails, mix into lemonade or pour onto waffles or pancakes.