Introduction to Simply the Best Blueberry Pie
Homemade pie has a way of weaving itself into our memory, bringing back cherished moments with every slice. There’s something extraordinarily fulfilling about combining simple ingredients—flour, butter, sugar, and, of course, fresh blueberries—to create a dessert that’s not just tasty but also evokes nostalgia.
Imagine a sun-soaked summer day, ripe blueberries bursting with flavor, and the enticing aroma of pie wafting through your kitchen. It’s this experience that makes simply the best blueberry pie not just a recipe, but a delightful ritual worth savoring. According to a recent survey, over 75% of people believe that homemade desserts are more enjoyable than store-bought ones—proof that there’s magic in the art of baking.
Whether for a family gathering, a weekend treat, or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee, this pie embodies the joy of homemade pie. Baking it is a breeze, and sharing it feels even better. As we gather around the table to indulge, we not only savor the flavors but create lasting memories. So, grab your apron and join me in making something truly special!
For guidance on making the perfect pie crust, check out Sally's Baking Addiction for Homemade Pie Crust.
Ingredients for Simply the Best Blueberry Pie
Pie Crust Options
For the foundation of your simply the best blueberry pie, you have a couple of delicious options. A homemade pie crust (like this buttery, flaky recipe) will give you that fresh, homemade charm. Alternatively, an all-butter pie crust (recipe here) adds a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the fruity filling. Both recipes yield enough dough for a top and bottom crust, ensuring your pie has that delightful homemade touch.
Fresh Blueberry Filling Ingredients
When it comes to the filling, using fresh blueberries is essential for that burst of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need for the filling:
- 6 cups (about 860g) fresh blueberries
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon cold unsalted butter (for added richness)
These ingredients come together to create a luscious filling that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Happy baking!
Step-by-step Preparation for Simply the Best Blueberry Pie
Making simply the best blueberry pie is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with delicious aromas. Let’s walk through each step so you can create a pie that will impress your family and friends.
Prepare the pie crust
To kick off your pie-making adventure, you need a flaky and buttery pie crust. You can choose to make a homemade pie crust (check out this recipe for a detailed guide) or follow the instructions for an all-butter pie crust from this link. Ideally, prepare two discs of dough ahead of time, allowing at least 30 minutes of chill time in the refrigerator before rolling out.
Make the blueberry filling
In a large bowl, combine 6 cups of fresh blueberries, ⅔ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, a hint of ground cinnamon, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest. Mix carefully until everything is well combined; don’t hesitate to burst a few blueberries to help moisten the mixture. You can set this aside to let the flavors meld—bonus: it can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours if you want to prepare ahead!
Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet
Next, position your oven rack in the lower third and preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). To catch any juicy overflow from the pie, place a baking sheet on the bottom oven rack. This step can save you from dealing with a messy oven later on!
Roll out the pie dough
Flour your work surface and roll out one disc of chilled pie dough until it reaches about 12 inches in diameter. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish. Comfortably press the dough into the dish, smoothing out any air bubbles. Pour the prepared blueberry filling into the crust and dot with small pieces of cold unsalted butter for extra richness.
Assemble the lattice crust
Now it's time for one of the fun parts—creating the lattice top! Roll out your second disc of pie dough to another 12 inches in diameter. Use a pastry wheel or sharp knife to cut strips of dough (about 1-inch wide). Weave them over and under the filling, creating a beautiful lattice design. This not only adds charm but allows steam to escape while baking.
Brush and bake the pie
Lightly brush your lattice crust with an egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired. Bake the pie for 25 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) without removing the pie. To prevent over-browning, consider using a pie crust shield during the final 40–50 minutes of baking, until the filling bubbles and reaches an internal temperature of around 200°F (93°C).
Now, you're on your way to enjoying a slice of simply the best blueberry pie! This process, though detailed, is quite simple and well worth the effort for that perfect slice of summer in each bite.
Variations on Simply the Best Blueberry Pie
If you’re looking to mix things up from your classic Simply the Best Blueberry Pie, here are two delightful variations that are equally mouthwatering.
Blueberry and Lemon Pie
For a citrusy twist, try incorporating fresh lemon juice and zest directly into the filling. This not only enhances the natural flavors of the blueberries but also adds a refreshing brightness. Consider a lemon-infused crust for extra zing! If you love the tang of lemon, this variation might quickly become your favorite. You can find more inspiration for citrus desserts here.
Blueberry Crumble Pie
Craving that crunchy contrast? Switch out your top crust for a warm, buttery crumble topping. Simply combine oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon with some butter for a delicious, crumbly finish. This variation not only adds texture but also makes the pie feel cozy and comforting—perfect for gatherings or chilly evenings. Want more ideas for crumble toppings? Check out this comprehensive guide.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Simply the Best Blueberry Pie
Make-Ahead Tips
Want to enjoy simply the best blueberry pie without the last-minute rush? Prep the filling a day in advance! Store it in the fridge, allowing time for the flavors to meld beautifully. You can also make the pie crust ahead—it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freezes nicely for up to 3 months. Need a trusty pie crust recipe? Check out this guide for homemade pie crust!
Storage Recommendations
Once baked, let your pie cool completely before storing. Keep it in the refrigerator, covered with foil or plastic wrap, and enjoy it within 3-4 days. If you have leftovers (which is rare!), consider freezing slices for a delicious treat later—just consume them within 3 months. For the best taste, allow frozen slices to thaw in the fridge and come to room temperature before indulging!
Serving Suggestions for Simply the Best Blueberry Pie
Pairing Ideas
To elevate your simply the best blueberry pie, consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. The creaminess beautifully complements the tartness of the blueberries. Alternatively, try a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. If you're feeling adventurous, pair it with a side of fresh mint; it adds a refreshing contrast that really pops!
Best Accompaniments
Adding a glass of homemade lemonade or a warm cup of chamomile tea makes for a delightful pairing. For a more savory touch, consider serving alongside Turkey Bacon or a light salad. These options create a balanced meal and enhance your dessert experience, ensuring every bite of blueberry pie is as memorable as the last. Happy baking!
Time Breakdown for Simply the Best Blueberry Pie
Creating your own simply the best blueberry pie doesn’t take all day, making it a perfect choice for a weekend treat or special occasion. Here’s how your time will be divided:
Preparation time
Expect about 30-40 minutes to prepare the crust and filling. If you’re making a homemade crust, take it easy and enjoy the process!
Baking time
The baking process will take around 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. This includes the initial high-temperature baking to create that golden crust, followed by a longer bake at a lower temperature.
Total time
In total, you’re looking at approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour and 55 minutes from start to finish. This includes time for prep, baking, and cooling if you want to dig in right away!
When planning to make your simply the best blueberry pie, ensure you set aside enough time to enjoy it! To make the most of your kitchen time, consider exploring the details of making the perfect pie crust, which is key to your pie’s success. It might become your new favorite dessert!
Nutritional Facts for Simply the Best Blueberry Pie
Calories
A slice of simply the best blueberry pie typically contains around 200-250 calories. This makes it a delightful, indulgent treat perfect for special occasions or a weekend dessert.
Carbohydrates
One slice has approximately 32-37 grams of carbohydrates, mainly from the blueberries and pie crust. This makes it a sweet finish to your meal but best enjoyed in moderation!
Vitamin C Content
This pie offers a nice boost of vitamin C, with blueberries providing about 14% of your daily recommended intake per slice. Enjoying blueberries not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also adds a nutritious punch! For more insights on the health benefits of blueberries, check out the Blueberry Council.
FAQs about Simply the Best Blueberry Pie
How do I know when the pie is done?
To ensure your simply the best blueberry pie is baked to perfection, look for the filling to be bubbly all over, particularly in the center. The edges should have a lovely, golden-brown crust, and the internal temperature should reach around 200°F (93°C). Trust your senses—if the aroma fills your kitchen and the pie looks inviting, it's likely ready to enjoy!
Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but it’s essential to skip thawing them beforehand. This helps prevent excess moisture, which can make your pie soggy. Just keep in mind that if you use frozen fruit, the baking time may increase slightly, so be patient and let your pie bubble away!
What's the best way to reheat leftover pie?
To reheat your simply the best blueberry pie, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method will help keep the crust crisp and flaky rather than soggy, perfect for enjoying those tasty leftovers!
For more pie tips, check out Sally's Baking Addiction for additional baking insights and delicious recipes.
Conclusion on Simply the Best Blueberry Pie
In conclusion, this simply the best blueberry pie recipe is your ticket to a delightful dessert experience. The harmonious blend of fresh blueberries, sugar, and zesty lemon creates a vibrant filling, while the flaky crust complements it perfectly. Whether enjoyed warm with vanilla ice cream or at room temperature, this pie will impress your friends and family. Happy baking!
Simply the Best Blueberry Pie
Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish
- Rolling Pin
- Pastry Brush
- Pastry Wheel
- mixing bowl
- spatula
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 Homemade Pie Crust or All Butter Pie Crust Both recipes make 2 crusts, 1 for bottom and 1 for top.
Filling
- 6 cups fresh blueberries About 860g
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar 135g
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour 31g
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch 14g
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 Tablespoons lemon juice 30ml
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 Tablespoon cold unsalted butter Cut into small cubes, 14g
- 1 large egg beaten with 1 Tablespoon (15ml) milk
- coarse sugar optional, for sprinkling on crust
Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare either pie crust recipe through step 5.
- Stir the blueberries, sugar, flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, lemon juice, and lemon zest together in a large bowl. Mix together until it’s no longer dry and powdery; burst a few blueberries if necessary to moisten. Set filling aside as the oven preheats.
- Adjust the oven rack to the lower third position and preheat to 425°F (218°C). Place baking sheet on the bottom oven rack to catch any blueberry juices.
- On a floured work surface, roll out one of the discs of chilled dough (keep the other one in the refrigerator). Turn the dough about a quarter turn after every few rolls until you have a circle 12 inches in diameter. Carefully place the dough into a 9 x 1.5 or 2-inch round pie dish. Tuck it in with your fingers, making sure it is smooth. Pour and spread filling evenly into pie dish. Dot the pieces of butter on top of the filling. Set aside at room temperature or in the refrigerator as you assemble the top pie crust.
- Remove the other disc of chilled pie dough from the refrigerator. Roll the dough into a circle that is 12 inches diameter. Cut strips of dough for the lattice top and arrange over the filling, sealing the edges.
- Lightly brush the top and edges of the pie crust with egg wash. Sprinkle the top with coarse sugar, if using.
- Bake the pie at 425°F for 25 minutes; then reduce the oven temperature down to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking until the filling’s juices are bubbling, 40–50 more minutes.
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