How do you make fresh blueberry pie? This delightful dessert is a favorite among many, and with its combination of sweet blueberries and a flaky crust, it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, making a fresh blueberry pie can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of creating a delicious homemade blueberry pie that will impress your family and friends.
First, gather all the necessary ingredients. You’ll need fresh blueberries, of course, along with flour, butter, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract for the crust. For the filling, you’ll need more sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Once you have everything ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making a fresh blueberry pie.
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cold, unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add 2 tablespoons of ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two equal parts and form them into disks. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
While the dough is chilling, prepare the blueberry filling. In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups of fresh blueberries, 1 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Set aside to cool.
After the dough has chilled, roll out one disk on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the dough to the dish and trim any excess. Roll out the second disk and place it on top of the pie filling. Crimp the edges together to seal the pie, and cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Brush the top of the pie with a mixture of 1 egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of water, and sprinkle with a pinch of sugar.
Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving. Enjoy your fresh blueberry pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Now that you know how to make fresh blueberry pie, you can experiment with different variations, such as adding a splash of almond extract or substituting lemon zest for lemon juice. No matter how you choose to customize your blueberry pie, the key is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and to follow the baking process carefully. With a little practice, you’ll be able to create a mouthwatering blueberry pie that will be the perfect ending to any meal.
