Blackberry Pie

Name: Blackberry Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 8 ounces Crisco or unsalted butter, cold; ¼ cup cold water; 6 cups blackberries (fresh or frozen); ⅔ cup sugar; 4 tablespoons cornstarch (or ⅔ cup for frozen blackberries); 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 teaspoons lemon zest; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 large egg; 1 tablespoon water; 1 tablespoon sugar (for topping)

By:

Sarah

Published:

September 28, 2025

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Blackberry pie is a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of summer, even when the season changes. With the luscious, sweet, and tangy bursts of fresh blackberries enveloped in a buttery, flaky crust, every bite feels like a warm hug. It’s a dessert that many remember from childhood, bringing back fond memories of family gatherings and backyard picnics. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t have to be a master chef to craft a delicious pie that everyone will love. As we gear up to make this delightful blackberry pie, you’ll find that the process not only fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma but also fills your heart with joy. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s embark on a flavorful journey filled with laughter and love.

Why This Recipe Works

Let’s talk about what makes this blackberry pie recipe a keeper. The balance of sweet and tart blackberries works perfectly with a buttery crust, creating a harmonious flavor profile. Each component plays a vital role in making it special. Whether you choose to go fresh or frozen with the berries, you can savor this pie any time of year. Isn’t that convenient?

Additionally, cornstarch thickens the filling, which means you can slice it perfectly every time. Instead of a mushy mess, you get neat, beautiful pieces. Now, doesn’t that sound like the ideal dessert?

Why You’ll Love This Blackberry Pie

This blackberry pie is not just a treat; it offers a nostalgic taste of summer with every bite. It’s like a time capsule, bringing back the sunshine and good vibes of warmer days. Plus, it’s so versatile! Whether you enjoy it warm from the oven or chilled from the fridge, it’s perfect for any occasion, be it a holiday meal or a dinner party.

And if you really want to elevate your experience, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm pie and cold ice cream is simply divine, making it a true pleasure for the senses.

Ingredients

Gathering ingredients is one of the best parts of cooking. For this blackberry pie, you’ll need:

2½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
8 ounces Crisco or unsalted butter, cold
¼ cup cold water
6 cups blackberries (fresh or frozen)
⅔ cup sugar
4 tablespoons cornstarch (or ⅓ cup for frozen blackberries)
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons lemon zest
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
1 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon sugar (for topping)

Preparing the Perfect Pie Crust

Mixing the Dough

Let’s start with the pie crust, the foundation of our delicious blackberry pie. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Now, it’s time to incorporate the cold Crisco or butter. Use your fingers for this part! You’re aiming for a texture that resembles coarse meal—this is crucial for that flaky crust we all love. Next, create a well in the center and pour in the cold water. Mix everything gently until just combined, but be careful not to overmix. No one wants a tough crust!

Chilling the Dough

After you mix the dough, divide it into two discs. Wrap each in plastic wrap and let them rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour. This step is essential! Chilling helps the fats in the dough solidify, giving you a flaky crust once baked.

Rolling Out the Dough

Once your dough is nice and chilled, roll out one disc on a floured surface. Aim for a circle large enough to hang over a 9-inch pie plate. Gently line the pie plate with this crust and then set it aside. For the second disc, roll it out thinner and cut it into ¾-inch strips. These strips will form the lattice top of your pie, giving it that homemade look we all adore.

Crafting the Blackberry Filling

Preparing the Filling

Now, let’s get to the fun part—the filling! In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch. This mix will sweeten and thicken the blackberries beautifully. In another bowl, combine the blackberries with the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Gently toss the berries with the sugar mixture until they are well coated. You’ll love how vibrant and aromatic this filling becomes!

Assembling the Pie

Pour the berry mixture into your prepared pie crust, making sure it’s evenly spread. Now, take those reserved dough strips and lay them across the top in a lattice pattern. It doesn’t have to be perfect—imperfect designs have their charm, too!

Baking the Pie

Pre-heating the Oven

Before we pop our pie into the oven, let’s preheat it to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your pie bakes evenly and thoroughly.

Egg Wash and Baking

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture over the entire crust for a beautiful golden color. Then, sprinkle a little sugar on top for added sweetness. Bake your pie for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. You’ll know it’s done when the filling starts bubbling, and the crust turns a perfect golden brown. If the edges seem to brown too quickly, a little foil can help shield them from direct heat.

Serving Suggestions

Now that your blackberry pie is baked to perfection, how should you serve it? Here are a few tasty ideas:

Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for an extra indulgent touch.
Add a dollop of whipped cream for a little more richness.

Tips for Success

To ensure your blackberry pie is a hit, consider these tips:

Fresh blackberries in season give the best flavor. If possible, seek them out!
Adjust sugar levels based on the sweetness of the berries you are using. Taste as you go!
Allow the pie to cool before slicing. This helps it keep its shape as you serve.

Variations

Looking to change things up a bit? Here are a couple of variations you can try:

Substitute blackberries for other berries like raspberries or blueberries—feel free to mix two or more!
Experiment with warming spices like cinnamon or nutmeg in the filling.
Create a gluten-free version using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Storage Tips

Got some leftovers? No problem! Cover the pie with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it in aluminum foil and freeze it. It can stay there for up to 3 months.

Pairing Ideas

To complement your blackberry pie, consider these pairing ideas:

A refreshing glass of lemonade serves as an excellent contrast to the pie.
A scoop of ginger ice cream offers a unique twist to your dessert experience.
Sip on a hot cup of tea while enjoying your pie for a cozy combination.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blackberries for this recipe?
Yes! Just remember to use ⅓ cup of cornstarch to thicken the filling properly.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
Look for bubbling filling and a golden brown crust to tell you it’s ready.
Is there a vegan alternative for this pie?
Certainly! Just swap out the Crisco or butter with a vegan alternative and skip the egg wash.
Can I make the pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the pie a day before and keep it in the refrigerator.
What should I do if the crust is getting too brown?
Use aluminum foil to cover the edges during baking if they brown too quickly.

Making blackberry pie is a delightful blend of flavors and memories. Enjoy each step of this cooking adventure, and remember that sharing it with loved ones makes it all the more special! So gather around the table, slice into your pie, and create new cherished moments together.

Blackberry Pie

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Blackberry Pie

Ingredients