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 butter, cold; ¼ cup cold water; 6 cups blackberries, fresh or frozen; ⅔ cup sugar; 4 tablespoons cornstarch (1/3 cup if using 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:

Thomas

Published:

December 14, 2025

[grow_share_buttons]

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Blackberry Pie is truly a gem of summer desserts. There’s something magical about the sweet-tart burst of juicy blackberries wrapped in a flaky crust. When you take that first bite, it’s like a taste of sun-drenched afternoons and laughter shared over barbecues or family gatherings. This recipe embraces those beautiful moments while bringing a homemade touch that warms the heart. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, making this pie is a delightful process filled with love. Grab your apron, pick some fresh blackberries if you can, or use the frozen ones stashed in your freezer. Either way, you’re in for a treat that captures the essence of summer in every slice. Let’s get started and make a pie that everyone will rave about!

Why This Recipe Works

Crafting the perfect blackberry pie requires a balance of sweet, tangy, and texture, and this recipe does just that! By using fresh or frozen blackberries combined with a light and flaky crust, you’re guaranteed a dessert that highlights the juicy flavor of seasonal berries while maintaining a delightful contrast with each bite. The addition of lemon juice and zest enhances the natural flavor of the blackberries, creating a harmonious blend that will become a staple in your summer dessert repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Blackberry Pie

This blackberry pie is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of summer! Whether you’re enjoying it at a backyard barbecue or a family gathering, this pie offers a nostalgic taste of warm memories and good company. The recipe’s ease makes it accessible for cooks of all levels, while the rich, tangy flavors will impress even the most discerning of pie lovers. Plus, who could resist a slice topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream?

Ingredients

2½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
8 ounces Crisco or butter, cold
¼ cup cold water
6 cups blackberries, fresh or frozen
⅔ cup sugar
4 tablespoons cornstarch (1/3 cup if using 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)

Making the Pie Crust

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add cold Crisco or butter, using your hands to mix until it resembles coarse meal. Make a well in the center of the mixture and add cold water. Gently mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing. You want to keep it tender and flaky.

Chill the Dough

Divide the dough into two equal discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a tender crust.

Roll Out the Crust

Once chilled, remove the dough from refrigeration and place it on a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to roll the first disc into a circle large enough to fit a 9″ pie plate. Carefully place this layer into the pie plate to form the base.

Create Lattice Topping

Roll out the second disc to about ¼” thickness and cut into ¾” strips using a pizza cutter. Chill the strips on a tray while preparing the filling. Keeping the strips cold will help them maintain their shape during baking.

Creating the Blackberry Filling

Combine Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch. In a separate bowl, gently mix the blackberries, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Next, sprinkle the sugar-cornstarch mixture over the blackberries and toss gently to coat. The cornstarch will help thicken the filling as it bakes.

Fill the Pie Crust

Pour the blackberry filling into the prepared pie crust. Now comes the fun part: arrange the chilled dough strips in a lattice pattern over the filling. This not only looks beautiful but also allows steam to escape, which is essential for a perfect bake.

Baking the Pie

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you finish up your pie. This step is crucial to ensure an even bake.

Apply Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water. Brush this mixture over the lattice crust to give it a lovely golden sheen during baking. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of sugar before placing the pie in the oven for a touch of sweetness.

Bake to Perfection

Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the filling is bubbling and thickened and the crust is golden brown. If the edges start browning too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning. Once baked, allow the pie to cool before serving. This cooling step helps the filling set perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your blackberry pie warm or at room temperature with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. It pairs beautifully with a refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemonade, balancing out the sweetness while enhancing the experience.

Tips for Success

Use fresh blackberries when in season for the best flavor.
If using frozen blackberries, increase the cornstarch to 1/3 cup to account for the extra moisture.
Make sure your butter or Crisco is cold to achieve the flakiest crust.

Variations

Explore adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an added depth of flavor.
Substitute some of the blackberries with blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry pie that’s just as delightful.

Storage Tips

Store leftover blackberry pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy a warm treat, reheat individual slices in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen blackberries?
Yes, frozen blackberries work well! Just remember to increase the cornstarch to help thicken the filling appropriately.

2. How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the filling is bubbling and the crust is golden brown, creating a perfect visual cue.

3. Can I make the pie crust ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie crust a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it.

4. Is there a gluten-free option for this pie?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the crust; it works beautifully in this recipe.

5. Can I freeze blackberry pie?
Indeed, you can freeze the unbaked pie. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When it’s time to bake, do so from frozen, increasing the baking time as necessary.

When making your very own blackberry pie, this recipe makes it easy and enjoyable, capturing the essence of summer in each delicious bite. The combination of juicy blackberries, zesty lemon, and flaky crust creates a dessert that sparks memories of picnics, family gatherings, and warm evenings. With just a few straightforward steps and ingredients, you’ll impress your friends and family—and maybe even start new traditions of your own. Relish the pleasure of every slice and the joy it brings to your table!

Blackberry Pie

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Blackberry Pie

Ingredients