Blueberry Slab Pie
Beautiful but easy to make! This Blueberry Slab Pie will impress everyone, and most importantly, it tastes delicious. Perfect for summer gatherings, family picnics, or any special occasion, this pie combines a delightful blueberry filling with a flaky crust. Its generous size makes it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring everyone gets a slice of this tasty treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the pie-making process, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The balance of sweet blueberries and a hint of cinnamon creates an irresistible flavor profile that will satisfy your cravings.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 16 servings, this slab pie is ideal for parties and gatherings where you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the deliciousness of the Blueberry Slab Pie, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides ample space for your slab pie to bake evenly and allows for easy transport.
- Rolling pin: Ensures your pie crust is rolled out uniformly for a perfect base and top.
- Pastry brush: Ideal for applying egg wash, giving your pie a golden finish.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create your Blueberry Slab Pie:
For the Filling
- 1 recipe blueberry pie filling (about 3 cups of homemade filling)
- 1½ cups fresh blueberries (1 pint)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (confectioner sugar/icing sugar)
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Crust
- 3 9 pie crusts (uncooked at room temperature)
For the Egg Wash
- 1 egg (any size)
- 1 Tablespoon water
For Topping
- 1-2 Tablespoons coarse sugar (to sprinkle on top before baking)
How to Make Blueberry Slab Pie
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Blueberry Filling
In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the fresh blueberries with powdered sugar, cornstarch, vanilla paste, lemon zest, lemon juice, and ground cinnamon.
2. Gently toss until all the berries are coated evenly.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie Crust
Roll out one pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Place it onto the prepared baking sheet. Pour the blueberry filling onto the crust, spreading it evenly.
Step 4: Add Top Crust
Roll out another pie crust and cut it into strips for a lattice design or simply cover it with another whole crust. If using strips, weave them over the filling before trimming excess dough.
Step 5: Apply Egg Wash
In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together the egg and water.
2. Brush this mixture over the top crust for that beautiful golden color.
Step 6: Sprinkle with Coarse Sugar
Sprinkle coarse sugar over the top before placing it in the oven.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Enjoy this delightful Blueberry Slab Pie, perfect for any gathering!
How to Serve Blueberry Slab Pie
Blueberry Slab Pie is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or a summer picnic, these serving suggestions will elevate your pie experience.
A La Mode
- Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.
- Drizzle with hot fudge for an indulgent twist.
Fresh Whipped Cream
- Top each slice with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream.
- Add a sprinkle of lemon zest for extra flavor.
Fruit Garnish
- Decorate plates with fresh blueberries and mint leaves to enhance presentation.
- Serve alongside sliced strawberries or raspberries for a colorful display.
Coffee Pairing
- Serve with a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a comforting afternoon treat.
- Consider flavored coffees like hazelnut or vanilla to complement the pie’s sweetness.
Picnic Style
- Cut into squares and serve cold at outdoor gatherings.
- Wrap in parchment paper for easy transport and serving.
How to Perfect Blueberry Slab Pie
To achieve the best results when making Blueberry Slab Pie, follow these simple tips to ensure your pie is both beautiful and delicious.
- Use fresh blueberries: Fresh berries provide the best flavor compared to frozen ones. They also give the filling a vibrant color.
- Make your own crust: Homemade pie crust can elevate your slab pie. It’s easier than you might think and tastes far superior to store-bought options.
- Don’t skip the cornstarch: This thickening agent helps prevent a runny filling. It ensures that each slice holds its shape beautifully.
- Zest your lemon: Adding lemon zest enhances the overall flavor profile by adding brightness and depth to the filling.
- Brush with egg wash: An egg wash gives your crust a shiny, golden finish while keeping it crispy. Mix with water for best results.
- Chill before baking: Allowing the assembled pie to chill in the refrigerator before baking helps firm up the filling and maintain structure.
Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Slab Pie
Pairing side dishes with Blueberry Slab Pie can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Lemon Sorbet – A refreshing palate cleanser that complements the sweetness of blueberry pie.
- Grilled Peaches – Sweet, caramelized peaches add a fruity contrast that pairs wonderfully with blueberries.
- Pecan Crumble – A nutty crumble adds crunch and rich flavor that balances the soft texture of the pie.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh fruits for a healthy side that contrasts nicely with the pie’s richness.
- Cheese Board – Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside nuts and dried fruit for an elegant touch.
- Mint Tea – A warm cup of mint tea provides an aromatic contrast that refreshes after indulging in sweet desserts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Blueberry Slab Pie can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that may affect your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the chill: Not chilling your pie crust can lead to a soggy bottom. Always refrigerate your crust before using it.
- Overfilling the pie: Adding too much filling can cause the pie to overflow. Stick to about 3 cups of filling for best results.
- Ignoring egg wash: Neglecting to brush your crust with egg wash can result in a dull appearance. Always apply an egg wash for a beautiful golden finish.
- Using stale ingredients: Old ingredients can affect flavor and texture. Ensure all your ingredients, especially baking powder and spices, are fresh.
- Not letting it cool: Cutting into your pie too soon can make it messy. Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing for neat pieces.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Container: Use an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap.
Freezing Blueberry Slab Pie
- Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Container: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil or use a freezer-safe container.
Reheating Blueberry Slab Pie
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-60 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Blueberry Slab Pie:
Can I use frozen blueberries for Blueberry Slab Pie?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just keep them slightly frozen before adding them to the filling.
How do I know when my Blueberry Slab Pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Can I customize the filling of my Blueberry Slab Pie?
Absolutely! You can mix in other fruits like strawberries or raspberries for added flavor.
What should I serve with Blueberry Slab Pie?
Serve with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or yogurt for a delightful contrast.
Final Thoughts
This Blueberry Slab Pie is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious! Its versatility allows you to customize it with various fruits, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends!
Blueberry Slab Pie
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 16 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful sweetness of Blueberry Slab Pie, a stunning dessert that combines the rich flavors of fresh blueberries with a flaky, golden crust. This easy-to-make pie is perfect for summer gatherings, family picnics, or any special occasion where you want to impress your guests. With its generous size, this crowd-pleaser offers 16 servings, ensuring everyone gets a satisfying slice. The balance of sweet blueberries enhanced by a hint of cinnamon creates an irresistible flavor profile that will leave everyone craving more. Simple to prepare and visually appealing, this Blueberry Slab Pie is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 recipe blueberry pie filling (about 3 cups)
- 1½ cups fresh blueberries
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 3 uncooked pie crusts (9 inches)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Coarse sugar for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix blueberries, powdered sugar, cornstarch, vanilla paste, lemon zest, lemon juice, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Roll out one pie crust and place it on the baking sheet; pour blueberry filling evenly over the crust.
- Roll out another crust for the top or cut into strips for a lattice design; place over filling and trim excess dough.
- Whisk egg with water and brush over the top crust; sprinkle with coarse sugar.
- Bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
