If you have a soft spot for sweet, juicy, and perfectly flaky desserts, then you are in for a real treat with The Best Blueberry Pie Recipe. This classic homemade pie delivers vibrant bursts of fresh blueberry flavor mingled with just the right touch of cinnamon and lemon zest, all wrapped in a buttery, golden crust that will have you reaching for seconds. Whether it’s a sunny summer afternoon or a cozy evening treat, this pie brings a heartwarming comfort that feels like a hug in dessert form.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is simple, but together they create a harmony of flavor and texture that makes The Best Blueberry Pie Recipe truly special. From the fresh blueberries that provide juicy sweetness to the buttery crust that bakes into crisp layers, every component plays a vital role.
- Double pie crust: Choose homemade or store-bought, a sturdy 9-inch crust forms the perfect base and cover for your pie.
- Fresh blueberries (6 cups): The star of the show, bursting with natural sweetness and rich color.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Balances the tartness of the berries with essential sweetness.
- Light brown sugar (1/4 cup): Adds a subtle caramel note for depth in flavor.
- Cornstarch (1/4 cup): Thickens the juicy filling so each slice holds together beautifully.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens the berry flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant citrus punch that makes the pie pop.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without being noticeable.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon, optional): A warm spice that adds cozy aroma and complexity.
- Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon): Little pats on top of the filling create pockets of rich, melty goodness.
- Egg wash (1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water): Gives the crust that irresistible golden shine.
- Coarse sugar (1 tablespoon, optional): Sprinkled on top, it provides a beautiful sparkle and slight crunch.
How to Make The Best Blueberry Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Crust
Begin by rolling out one pie crust to fit snugly into a 9-inch pie plate, trimming any excess dough that hangs over the edges. A well-fitted crust is crucial for holding the sweet filling without leaking during baking.
Step 2: Mix the Blueberry Filling
In a large bowl, gently combine fresh blueberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and cinnamon if you like. Toss carefully to coat every berry without crushing them, ensuring the filling will be thick, flavorful, and vibrant.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour the luscious blueberry mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter to infuse richness as they melt during baking. Roll out the second pie crust and cover the top—either cover completely or create a pretty lattice pattern for a rustic look. Trim, seal, and crimp the edges tightly for that classic pie finish.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Brush the top crust with the egg wash, and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a sparkling, crunchy surface. If using a solid top crust, make sure to cut small slits to let steam escape so your pie bakes perfectly without sogginess.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake it at 400°F for 20 minutes to jump-start browning. Then reduce the oven to 350°F and bake for an additional 35 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on the crust edges, and cover them with foil if they brown too quickly. The pie is done when the crust is beautifully golden and the filling bubbles enticingly.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Patience is key! Allow the pie to cool for at least two hours. This step is essential as it lets the filling set, giving you clean slices packed with juicy blueberries.
How to Serve The Best Blueberry Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Nothing elevates this pie quite like a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty finishing touch that’s sure to impress your guests instantly.
Side Dishes
This blueberry pie shines best when enjoyed simply, but pairing it with a side of tangy lemon sorbet or a fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette can bring a wonderful balance if serving as part of a larger meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve the pie slices atop small dessert plates lined with edible flowers or arrange mini versions of this pie in ramekins for individual servings that delight at any dinner party or special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it stays fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making for an excellent next-day treat.
Freezing
You can freeze a fully baked pie wrapped securely in foil and plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or serving at room temperature to maintain its texture and flavor.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked warmth, reheat pie slices in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes. This method revives the crust’s crispiness and the filling’s bubbly charm without turning soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries can be used straight from the freezer; just increase the cornstarch by one tablespoon to help thicken any extra juice released during baking.
How do I prevent the crust edges from burning?
Cover the edges with foil or use a pie crust shield after the first 20 minutes of baking. This simple step keeps the edges from browning too fast while the center finishes baking.
What makes this The Best Blueberry Pie Recipe compared to others?
It’s all about the balance of flavors—the perfect mix of sugars, lemon zest, and cinnamon paired with a flaky crust and fresh berries. The attention to cooling time also ensures your slices hold together beautifully.
Can I make this pie vegan?
You can easily swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use a vegan pie crust to make this pie vegan-friendly without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Do I need to blind bake the crust?
No need to blind bake for this recipe. The filling cooks well alongside the crust, and the baking steps outlined ensure a perfectly cooked pie every time.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making and sharing The Best Blueberry Pie Recipe. It’s a dessert that brings warmth, nostalgia, and pure joy to any table. Trust me, once you try it, this pie will quickly become your go-to for celebrations, casual gatherings, or whenever you crave a slice of homemade happiness. So grab those fresh blueberries, roll out that crust, and bake your way to bliss!
Print
The Best Blueberry Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes plus cooling
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic American blueberry pie features a flaky double crust filled with sweet, juicy blueberries balanced by a hint of lemon and cinnamon. Perfect as a summer dessert, it’s baked to golden perfection with a buttery finish and can be served with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 double pie crust for a 9 inch pie, homemade or store bought
Filling
- 6 cups fresh blueberries
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Topping
- 1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate, trimming excess dough as needed to fit snugly.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, gently toss together the blueberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and cinnamon until the berries are evenly coated.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the blueberry filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly. Dot the filling with small pieces of unsalted butter for added richness.
- Add Top Crust: Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. You may place it whole or cut it into strips to form a lattice pattern. Trim, seal, and crimp the edges to secure the top crust.
- Apply Egg Wash and Vent: Brush the top crust with the beaten egg wash. If using a solid top crust, cut small slits to allow steam to escape during baking. Sprinkle coarse sugar on top if desired for a sparkling finish.
- Bake the Pie: Place the assembled pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 35 to 45 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them loosely with foil.
- Cool the Pie: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. Cooling lets the filling set, ensuring clean slicing and optimal flavor.
Notes
- Fresh blueberries yield the best flavor and texture, but frozen berries can be used without thawing; increase cornstarch by 1 tablespoon if using frozen.
- Allowing the pie to cool completely before slicing prevents the filling from oozing out.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious treat.
