Plum Crunch

This is the first of what may be several plum recipes that I share with you.  My daughter LOVES plums and I always have a stock pile of them in my fridge whenever they are in season.  And I must say, this is my current favorite way to eat them!  I mean, really!  Top just about anything with crunchy, toasty, buttery, sugary, oatie goodness and you have your self a winner!

This is just fresh enough to taste like a lovely summer dish, not an autumn dessert.  Serve it with fresh cream or vanilla ice cream, and it becomes absolutely sublime. Plum Crunch
Adapted from Ina Garten

1 1/2 lbs red or black plums (we like black because they are sweeter) pitted and quartered
3/4 c brown sugar
2-3 T flour, or more, if your plums are super juicy
Topping:
3/4 c flour
1/2 c brown sugar
1/4 c sugar
pinch of salt
3/4 c oatmeal
1/2 c chopped walnuts
1 stick cold, unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

Toss the fruit, brown sugar, and flour together in a bowl.  Dump into a small, shallow casserole dish.  A glass 8X8 or 9X9 would be fine too.  Combine all topping ingredients in the bowl of an electric mixer using a paddle attachment.  Mix on low until it starts to get crumbly and holds together when you squeeze it in your hand.  Sprinkle evenly over fruit.  Bake in a 375 degree oven for 30-40 minutes, or until bubbly and browned across the top.  Let cool slightly and serve warm or at room temperature.  Serve with fresh cream or ice cream.