Are you craving a warm, comforting slice of pie but short on time? This recipe utilizes canned berry pie filling to create a delicious dessert that's surprisingly easy and incredibly satisfying. Forget hours spent meticulously preparing your own filling; this recipe lets you focus on the fun part – baking! Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, this recipe for a simple yet delicious berry pie will become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 (21-ounce) can your favorite berry pie filling (strawberry, blueberry, mixed berry – get creative!)
- 1 (14.1-ounce) can refrigerated pie crusts (or your favorite homemade recipe!)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling on top)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your pie bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown crust.
- Carefully remove your pie crusts from the refrigerator. Allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes to become more pliable.
Assemble the pie:
- Gently open the can of berry pie filling and pour its contents into one of the pie crusts. If you want extra sweetness, you can stir in the 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar now.
- Carefully place the second pie crust on top. Crimp the edges to seal, using a fork to create a decorative edge. This step is crucial for preventing leakage during baking.
- Cut several slits into the top crust to allow steam to escape. This prevents the pie from bubbling over and ensures a beautiful, even bake.
Bake to perfection:
- Brush the top crust with the beaten egg. This creates a lovely golden-brown sheen and helps the crust to brown evenly.
- If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar over the top for added texture and visual appeal.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any spills) and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Cool and serve:
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set and prevents a messy, runny pie.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can lead to a dry crust and a burnt filling. Start checking for doneness around the 35-minute mark.
- Use a pie shield: If your crust is browning too quickly, consider using a pie shield to protect it.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings, such as whipped cream, ice cream, or a dollop of vanilla yogurt. These add a delightful contrast in flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Add spices: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the pie filling before baking.
- Use different fruits: While this recipe uses canned berry pie filling, you can substitute with other canned fruit fillings like apple or cherry.
- Make it a crumble: Top the pie filling with a buttery crumble topping for extra texture and deliciousness.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific pie filling and crust used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-400
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50g
- Sugar: Approximately 25-35g
- Protein: Approximately 4-6g
This easy canned berry pie recipe is perfect for quick dinner ideas, healthy meals, or a simple dessert for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cooking!