Blueberry Pie Recipe

Recipe adapted from Lemon Blossoms.

Best Blueberry Pie Recipe

When it comes to classic desserts, few things evoke the warmth of home quite like a freshly baked blueberry pie. The combination of juicy, tart blueberries encased in a buttery, flaky crust makes this pie irresistible, whether you're serving it at a summer gathering or as a cozy winter treat.

The Perfect Blueberry Filling

The key to a great blueberry pie is in the filling. Fresh, plump blueberries are essential, and they bring the perfect balance of sweetness and tang to the table. Here’s what you’ll need for the filling:

• 6 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
• 3/4 cup sugar (adjust according to sweetness of the berries)
• 5 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional for a warm flavor twist)
• A pinch of salt
• Additional sugar to bake on top of the crust.

To prepare the filling, toss the blueberries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, zest, and cinnamon in a large bowl. The cornstarch will help thicken the filling, while the lemon juice and zest enhance the berries’ natural flavor, adding brightness to the mix. This combination creates a perfectly thick, luscious filling that holds its shape when sliced.

Crafting the Flakiest Pie Crust

No blueberry pie recipe is complete without a flaky homemade pie crust. While you can always use store-bought, making your own is surprisingly simple and rewarding. Here’s a tried-and-true recipe for a buttery crust:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 12 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/3 cup vegetable shortening
• 1/2 cup ice water
• Egg wash: 1 beaten egg with 1 tablespoon milk

Combine the dry ingredients, then cut in the cold butter into 1/2 inch cubes. Slowly add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together. Divide the dough in half, flatten into discs, and chill for at least an hour before rolling out.

For an elegant finish, consider making a lattice crust. It's one of the best blueberry pie ideas if you're looking to add a bit of rustic charm to your dessert. The open weave of the lattice not only looks beautiful but also allows the filling to bubble and caramelize.

Baking the Blueberry Pie to Perfection

Once your filling is prepared and your crust is ready, it’s time to assemble and bake! Roll out one disc of dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan, leaving enough overhang for crimping. Pour the blueberry filling into the crust, and top with either a full crust or a lattice. Brush the top with an egg wash and sprinkle with sugar for a golden, shimmering finish.

Bake the pie at 425°F (190°C) for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning.

Blueberry Pie Ideas for Extra Flavor

To take this blueberry pie recipe up a notch, here are a few creative ideas:

• Add a hint of spice: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or allspice with the filling for a warm, comforting flavor.
• Infuse with herbs: Add a few sprigs of thyme or a dash of lavender for a subtle, fragrant twist.
• Top with a crumble: Instead of a full crust, try a buttery crumble topping made from oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon.

Serving and Storing Your Blueberry Pie

Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to ensure the filling sets properly. Serve your blueberry pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

If you have leftovers, store them at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Conclusion

Whether you're a pie-baking novice or a seasoned pro, this blueberry pie recipe is sure to become a favorite.