Name: Blueberry Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-485362H32M8S
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Pie Crust (Homemade Double Crust); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 2/3 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed (or vegan butter for plant-based); 6–8 tbsp ice water; Alternative: 1 package (2 crusts) store-bought refrigerated pie dough; For the Blueberry Filling; 4 cups fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed, and drained); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; Pinch of salt; 1 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces (for dotting; optional, or vegan butter); For the Crust Topping; 1 tbsp milk or egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water; use plant-based milk for vegan); 1–2 tsp coarse sugar (e.g., turbinado or granulated) for sprinkling

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Blueberries burst with sweet-tart flavor, and when nestled in a flaky, golden crust, they create a dessert that feels like a warm hug from summer. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday feast, or simply craving a slice of nostalgia, a homemade blueberry pie delivers unmatched satisfaction.

Table of Contents

This article guides you through crafting a classic blueberry pie, complete with precise measurements, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips to ensure success. Additionally, you’ll find creative variations, storage advice, serving ideas, and answers to common questions. Let’s dive into this delicious journey and bake a pie that steals the show.

Ingredients for Blueberry Pie

Before you start, gather these ingredients for a 9-inch pie that serves 8:

For the Pie Crust:

2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon (12g) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon (6g) salt
1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
6–8 tablespoons (90–120ml) ice water

For the Blueberry Filling:

5 cups (750g) fresh blueberries (or frozen, thawed, and drained)
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (30g) cornstarch
1 tablespoon (15ml) lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1 teaspoon (2g) lemon zest
½ teaspoon (1g) ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon (0.5g) ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon (5g) vanilla extract
1 tablespoon (14g) unsalted butter, cubed (for dotting)

For the Egg Wash:

1 large egg
1 tablespoon (15ml) milk
1 tablespoon (12g) coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

With these ingredients ready, you’re set to create a pie that balances a buttery crust with a juicy, flavorful filling. Next, let’s move to the step-by-step process.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to craft your blueberry pie. Each step ensures clarity and precision for a flawless result.

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

First, combine the flour, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces.

Gradually drizzle in 6 tablespoons of ice water, mixing with a fork until the dough begins to hold together. If needed, add more water, 1 tablespoon at a time. Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape each into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Make the Blueberry Filling

While the dough chills, rinse the fresh blueberries (if using) and pat them dry. In a large bowl, toss the blueberries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Gently stir until the berries are evenly coated. Set the filling aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

After chilling, lightly flour a clean work surface. Roll out one dough disk into a 12-inch circle, about ⅛-inch thick. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, letting the excess dough hang over the edges.

Trim any overhang to 1 inch beyond the dish’s rim. Roll out the second dough disk into another 12-inch circle for the top crust or cut it into strips for a lattice design.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Pour the blueberry filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Dot the filling with small cubes of butter for extra richness. Place the second dough circle over the filling or weave the strips into a lattice pattern.

Trim and crimp the edges to seal the crusts together. For a solid top crust, cut a few slits to allow steam to escape.

Step 5: Apply the Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk the egg and milk together. Brush the mixture over the top crust to achieve a golden shine. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar for a sparkling finish.

Step 6: Bake the Pie

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles vigorously.

If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with a pie shield or aluminum foil after 30 minutes. Once baked, cool the pie on a wire rack for at least 3 hours to allow the filling to set.

Now that you’ve baked a stunning blueberry pie, let’s explore tips to elevate your skills and ensure perfection.

Helpful Tips for Perfecting Your Blueberry Pie

To make your pie stand out, consider these expert tips:

Keep Ingredients Cold: Cold butter and ice water create a flaky crust. If the dough warms while working, refrigerate it for 15 minutes before continuing.
Balance the Filling: Taste your blueberries before mixing. If they’re very tart, add an extra tablespoon of sugar; if overly sweet, increase the lemon juice slightly.
Prevent a Soggy Bottom: Place the pie dish on a preheated baking sheet to crisp the bottom crust. Alternatively, brush the bottom crust with a thin layer of egg white before adding the filling.
Check for Doneness: Look for thick, bubbling filling through the vents or lattice. This indicates the cornstarch has fully thickened the juices.
Use a Pie Shield: Protect the crust edges from over-browning by using a pie shield or foil, especially during the last 20 minutes of baking.

With these tips, your pie will impress both visually and in flavor. Next, let’s explore creative ways to switch up the recipe.

Variations to Try

Blueberry pie welcomes experimentation. Here are some exciting variations to suit different tastes:

Mixed Berry Pie: Replace 2 cups of blueberries with raspberries, blackberries, or strawberries for a vibrant, multi-berry filling.
Streusel Topping: Skip the top crust and sprinkle a crumble made of ½ cup flour, ½ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup butter, and ¼ cup oats over the filling for a crunchy texture.
Blueberry-Lavender Pie: Add ½ teaspoon of dried lavender to the filling for a floral note. Infuse it with the sugar first to evenly distribute the flavor.
Gluten-Free Pie: Substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornstarch is gluten-free.
Spiced Blueberry Pie: Enhance the filling with ¼ teaspoon of ground cardamom or ginger for a warm, aromatic twist.

These variations keep the pie exciting while preserving its classic charm. Now, let’s discuss how to store your creation.

Conservation and Storage

Proper storage ensures your blueberry pie stays fresh and delicious. Follow these guidelines:

Room Temperature: Keep the pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered loosely with foil or plastic wrap. This preserves the crust’s texture.
Refrigeration: Store the pie in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing fridge odors.
Freezing: Freeze the baked pie for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Alternatively, freeze the unbaked pie (without egg wash) and bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: Warm refrigerated or thawed pie slices in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 10–15 minutes to revive the crust’s crispness.

With these storage tips, you can enjoy your pie over time. Next, let’s explore how to serve it for maximum enjoyment.

Serving Suggestions

Blueberry pie shines on its own but pairs beautifully with complementary flavors and presentations:

Classic à la Mode: Serve warm pie slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy, cold contrast enhances the warm, juicy filling.
Whipped Cream: Top with homemade whipped cream flavored with a hint of vanilla or almond extract for a lighter option.
Lemon Zest Garnish: Sprinkle fresh lemon zest over each slice for a bright, citrusy pop that echoes the filling’s lemon notes.
Cheese Pairing: Offer a slice alongside a mild cheese, like brie or gouda, for a sophisticated sweet-savory combination.
Beverage Match: Pair the pie with a glass of iced tea, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, or a cup of freshly brewed coffee to balance its sweetness.

These serving ideas elevate the pie’s appeal, making every bite memorable. Now, let’s address common questions to boost your confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to questions bakers often ask about blueberry pie:

Can I use frozen blueberries? Yes, thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid. No need to adjust the sugar or cornstarch.
Why did my filling turn runny? The pie may not have baked long enough for the cornstarch to thicken the juices. Ensure the filling bubbles vigorously before removing it from the oven.
How do I avoid a tough crust? Handle the dough minimally and keep it cold. Overworking the dough develops gluten, making the crust tough.
Can I make the pie ahead? Absolutely. Bake it up to 2 days in advance and store it at room temperature, or freeze it unbaked for up to 3 months.
What if I don’t have a pie dish? Use a deep-dish 9-inch cake pan or a cast-iron skillet, adjusting the dough to fit.

These answers tackle common hurdles, ensuring a smooth baking experience. Let’s wrap up with a final reflection.

Conclusion

Blueberry pie captures the essence of comfort and versatility, blending a flaky crust with a vibrant, juicy filling that suits any occasion.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe, experiment with creative variations like a streusel topping or lavender infusion, or pair it with ice cream or whipped cream, this dessert never fails to delight.

With precise measurements, clear instructions, and tips for perfection, you can bake a pie that wows your guests or satisfies a personal craving. Plus, its make-ahead and storage options make it a practical choice for busy schedules.

So, grab those blueberries, roll up your sleeves, and bake a blueberry pie that celebrates flavor and tradition in every slice.

How to Make a Perfect Blueberry Pie