You use overripe fruit in cobblers and crisps

THE RESULT: The fruit disintegrates and becomes mushy.

THE FIX: The difference between perfectly ripe and overripe can be a fine line, but when it comes to cobblers and crisps, the distinction is important. Fruit at the peak of freshness will not only deliver optimum flavor, but it will also hold its shape better, leaving you with sweet, tender pieces after cooking. Soft, overripe fruit will break down further in the heat of the oven, leaving you with a mushy filling.