Are you craving a dessert that's both comforting and bursting with fresh flavor? Look no further than this irresistible blueberry crumb pie! This recipe is perfect for those warm summer evenings when you want a delicious, homemade treat without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a beautiful blend of sweet, juicy blueberries baked under a golden, buttery crumble topping – a true testament to the magic of homemade cooking. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and experienced cooks alike, guaranteeing a delicious dessert every time. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant pie!
Ingredients:
For the Blueberry Filling:
- 4 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Crumb Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
For the Crust (You can use store-bought for convenience):
- 1 9-inch pre-made pie crust
Instructions:
Making the Blueberry Filling:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the blueberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until the blueberries are evenly coated. Avoid overmixing, as this can break down the berries.
- Pour the blueberry mixture into the pie crust.
Making the Crumb Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Don't overmix; some larger pieces are fine.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the blueberry filling.
Baking the Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any spills.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
- Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set properly.
Tips for the Best Blueberry Crumb Pie:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of granulated and brown sugar in the filling.
- If using frozen blueberries, make sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before adding them to the filling. This prevents a watery pie.
- Don't be afraid to adjust the amount of sugar to your liking, depending on the sweetness of your blueberries.
- For a crispier topping, bake the pie for a few extra minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra decadent treat!
Variations:
- Lemon Blueberry Crumb Pie: Add the zest of one lemon to the filling for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
- Apple Blueberry Crumb Pie: Add 2 cups of diced apples to the blueberry filling for a delightful combination of flavors.
- Streusel Topping: Instead of a crumble topping, try making a streusel topping by adding more butter and mixing until it forms larger clumps.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 18-22g
- Saturated Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 45-50g
- Sugar: 25-30g
- Protein: 4-5g
This blueberry crumb pie is a perfect example of delicious, healthy meals achievable through homemade cooking. Enjoy this simple recipe and create a wonderful dessert experience for yourself and your loved ones. It's a truly satisfying and quick dinner idea for any occasion, making it one of the best recipes for busy weeknights or special gatherings.