Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that tastes like summer? Look no further! This blackberry pie recipe uses frozen berries, making it a quick and easy homemade treat perfect for any time of year. Forget complicated recipes and store-bought pies – this recipe is your shortcut to a delicious, homemade dessert that will impress your family and friends. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, proving that healthy meals can also be incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup ice water
For the Filling:
- 4 cups frozen blackberries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
Making the Crust:
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Cut in butter: Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Work quickly to prevent the butter from melting.
- Add water: Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing lightly until the dough just comes together. Don't overmix.
- Chill the dough: Form the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent shrinkage during baking.
Assembling and Baking the Pie:
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie plate.
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, gently combine the frozen blackberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using).
- Fill the pie crust: Pour the blackberry filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Top the pie: Roll out the second disc of dough and either place it over the filling, crimping the edges to seal, or cut it into strips for a lattice top. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
- Cool: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set properly.
Tips for the Best Blackberry Pie:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better your ingredients, the better your pie will taste!
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough crust.
- Blind bake (optional): For a crispier bottom crust, you can pre-bake the crust for 15 minutes before adding the filling. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
- Let it cool: Patience is key! Allowing the pie to cool completely prevents a runny filling.
Variations:
- Add other berries: Mix in raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries for a mixed berry pie.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the filling for a warm, comforting flavor.
- Make it a crumble: Instead of a top crust, use a streusel topping made from flour, butter, sugar, and oats.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 15-20g
- Saturated Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 45-55g
- Sugar: 25-35g
- Protein: 3-5g
This blackberry pie recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Enjoy this delicious and easy dessert, a wonderful example of delicious dishes made with simple, homemade cooking. It's the best recipe for a comforting treat any time of year!