Traditional Blueberry Pie Recipe
There’s something undeniably comforting about a classic blueberry pie — the golden, flaky crust enveloping a burst of sweet and tangy blueberry goodness. This timeless dessert is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday celebrations.
Let’s explore a tried-and-true blueberry pie recipe and discuss creative ways to serve it, ideal occasions for sharing, and essential tips for baking the perfect pie.
What you need to make a traditional blueberry pie
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water
For the Blueberry Filling:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing the crust)
How to make this simple blueberry pie
Prepare the Pie Crust:
In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter pieces and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overmix.
Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Roll Out the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
On a floured surface, roll out one disc of pie dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place the rolled-out dough into the pie dish and trim any excess around the edges.
3. Prepare the Blueberry Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, salt, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Toss until the blueberries are well coated.
4. Assemble the Pie:
Pour the blueberry filling into the prepared pie crust.
Roll out the second disc of pie dough and place it over the blueberry filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
5. Bake:
Brush the top crust with the beaten egg to give it a golden finish.
Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown, and the filling is bubbling.
6. Cool and Serve:
Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This will help the filling set.
Serve the blueberry pie on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Ways to Serve blueberry pie:
Classic Slice: Serve a generous slice of blueberry pie on its own to savor the simplicity of this timeless dessert.
À la Mode: Enhance your experience by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm pie and cold ice cream create a delightful contrast.
Whipped Cream Topping: For a lighter touch, top each serving with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
Pair with Tea or Coffee: Enjoy a slice with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy afternoon treat.
Ideal Places to Serve Blueberry Pie:
Family Gatherings: Blueberry pie is a crowd-pleaser and an excellent choice for family get-togethers. It’s a dessert that spans generations and brings everyone to the table.
Picnics: Pack a whole blueberry pie or individual slices for a delightful picnic dessert. It’s easy to transport and doesn’t require elaborate serving arrangements.
Holiday Celebrations: Elevate your holiday dessert table with the vibrant colors and flavors of a homemade blueberry pie. It’s a festive addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Blueberry Pie:
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, ripe blueberries for the best flavor. If using frozen berries, thaw and drain excess liquid before adding them to the filling.
Chilled Ingredients: Keep the pie dough and butter cold to achieve a flaky crust. Refrigerate the dough as directed in the recipe.
Ventilation: Cut slits or create a decorative pattern in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking, preventing a soggy crust.
Egg Wash: Brushing the top crust with beaten egg before baking gives it a beautiful golden sheen.
Cooling Time: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to let the filling set.
In conclusion, a classic blueberry pie is a versatile and delightful dessert suitable for various occasions. Whether served at family gatherings, picnics, or holiday celebrations, this timeless treat is sure to bring joy to those who indulge. Follow the recipe and tips provided to bake the perfect blueberry pie, creating lasting memories with each delicious bite.
