Deep-Dish Blueberry Pie Recipe

Delight in the sweet, fresh flavor of a homemade deep-dish blueberry pie. This timeless dessert features a flaky crust filled with a luscious, tangy blueberry filling. The secret is in the lemon zest which adds a subtle citrusy zing, enhancing the blueberries' natural flavor, and the cornstarch that thickens the filling perfectly.

Photos of Deep-Dish Blueberry Pie Recipe

You will need fresh blueberries for this recipe, which can be found in the produce section of your supermarket. If fresh is not available, you can substitute with frozen blueberries, though the flavor of fresh is generally superior. Cornstarch, a common thickening agent used in pies, should be available in the baking aisle.

Ingredients for Deep-Dish Blueberry Pie

Blueberries: The star of the dish, these provide the sweet and tangy flavor.

Sugar: This sweetens the filling and compliments the natural tartness of the blueberries.

Cornstarch: Helps to thicken the blueberry sauce and create a nice, consistent filling.

Lemon juice: Adds a bit of acidity to balance out the sweetness.

Lemon zest: Brings a bright, citrusy note to the pie.

Salt: A pinch helps to enhance the flavors.

Flaky pie dough: The vessel for the blueberry filling, it should be buttery and flaky.

One reader, Darlleen Finch says:

The deep-dish blueberry pie recipe is a game-changer! The combination of sweet blueberries and zesty lemon creates a burst of flavor in every bite. The flaky pie crust is the perfect complement to the juicy filling. It's a must-try for any pie lover!

Darlleen Finch

Essential Techniques for Making Deep-Dish Blueberry Pie

How to prepare the blueberries: Toss the blueberries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt in a bowl until well combined.

How to roll out the pie dough: Roll out the larger piece of flaky pie dough to a 13-inch round, about 1/8 inch thick, and the smaller piece to a 12-inch round.

How to line the pie plate with dough: Line a 9 1/2-by-1 3/4-inch glass pie plate with the larger rolled-out dough, then brush the overhang with water and spoon in the blueberry filling.

How to seal the pie with the top crust: Lay the smaller rolled-out dough over the filling, press the edges together, trim the overhang, fold it under itself, and crimp the edges.

How to bake the pie: Bake the pie at 375 degrees F in the lower third of the oven until the filling is bubbling and the crust is golden brown, about 2 to 2 1/4 hours. Cover the edge with foil if it begins to darken.

How to cool the pie: Let the pie cool for 5 hours at room temperature before serving.

How To Make Deep-Dish Blueberry Pie

Summer means fresh berries, and this blueberry pie recipe is a great way to use them up. It’s a deep-dish version so you’re sure to get the most filling.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Cool Time: 5 hours

Total: 5 hours 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2½lbsblueberries,(8 cups)
¾cupsugar
1cupcornstarch,(plus tbsp)
2tbspfresh lemon juice
½tsplemon zest,finely grated
pinchsalt
flaky pie dough

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F and position a rack in the lower third.
In a bowl, toss the blueberries with the ¾ cup of sugar, the cornstarch, the lemon juice, the lemon zest and the salt.
Roll out the larger piece of Flaky Pie Dough to a 13-inch round, about ⅛ inch thick.
Line a 9½x1¾-inch glass pie plate with the dough
Brush the overhang with water and spoon in the filling.
Roll out the smaller piece of dough to a 12-inch round and lay it over the filling; press the edges together.
Trim the overhang to ½-inch, fold it under itself and crimp.
Lightly brush the top with water and sprinkle with sugar.
Cut a few slits for steam to escape.
Bake the pie for about 2 to 2¼ hours, until the filling is bubbling and the crust is golden brown.
Cover the edge of the pie with foil if it begins to darken.
Let cool for 5 hours at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 245.96kcal
Fat: 0.55g
Saturated Fat: 0.05g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.08g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.24g
Carbohydrates: 61.91g
Fiber: 4.08g
Sugar: 37.64g
Protein: 1.26g
Sodium: 479.54mg
Calcium: 11.05mg
Potassium: 130.53mg
Iron: 0.56mg
Vitamin A: 4.86µg
Vitamin C: 17.58mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Deep-Dish Blueberry Pie

When making your deep-dish blueberry pie, it's crucial to ensure the blueberries are evenly coated with the sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and lemon zest. This will help to evenly distribute the flavors and thicken the filling. Additionally, when rolling out your flaky pie dough, try to maintain an even thickness throughout. This will ensure even baking and prevent any parts of the crust from becoming too thin and burning. Lastly, remember to cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. This will prevent the crust from becoming soggy and will help to create a beautifully golden and flaky top crust.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Blueberry Pie

Prep ahead: Prepare the pie dough and filling a day in advance to save time on the day of baking.

Use frozen blueberries: Frozen blueberries can be used instead of fresh ones, saving time on washing and picking over the berries.

Double the recipe: Make two pies at once and freeze one for later, saving time on future baking.

Invest in a pie crust shield: Using a pie crust shield can prevent the edges from over-browning, eliminating the need to check and cover the pie during baking.

Pre-cut the pie: Pre-cut the pie before baking to save time when serving and ensure even portions.

Substitute Ingredients For Deep-Dish Blueberry Pie Recipe

blueberries - Substitute with blackberries: Blackberries have a similar tartness and sweetness to blueberries, making them a suitable substitute in a deep-dish pie recipe.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add sweetness and moisture to the pie filling, and it also complements the flavor of the berries.
cornstarch - Substitute with tapioca starch: Tapioca starch can thicken the pie filling similarly to cornstarch and provides a glossy, clear finish.
lemon juice - Substitute with orange juice: Orange juice can provide a citrusy tang to the filling, similar to lemon juice, while adding a hint of sweetness.
lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest can offer a similar citrus aroma and flavor to the pie filling, complementing the blueberries.
flaky pie dough - Substitute with puff pastry: Puff pastry can create a flaky and buttery crust for the deep-dish pie, adding a delightful texture and flavor.

Best Way to Present Blueberry Pie

Elevate the pie crust: Create a decorative lattice or intricate design on the pie crust to showcase your attention to detail and craftsmanship. A beautifully designed crust will impress the judges and add a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Incorporate a garnish: Add a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar to the top of the pie for a pop of color and a visually appealing finish. The garnish should complement the flavors of the blueberry pie and enhance the overall presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the vibrant colors of the blueberries to stand out. A minimalistic approach to plating will draw attention to the star of the dish – the delicious blueberry filling.
Highlight the filling: When slicing and plating the pie, ensure that the luscious blueberry filling is prominently displayed. The judges should be able to see the abundance of juicy blueberries and appreciate the generous filling within each slice.
Artful drizzle: Consider adding a delicate drizzle of vanilla bean glaze or a light dusting of edible glitter to add a touch of sophistication and artistry to the presentation. The drizzle should be skillfully executed to enhance the visual appeal without overpowering the flavors of the pie.

Essential Tools for Making Deep-Dish Blueberry Pie

Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing them thoroughly. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic.
Rolling pin: A rolling pin is used to flatten and shape dough for pie crusts, ensuring it is even and of the desired thickness.
Pie plate: A pie plate is a round, shallow dish with sloping sides, designed specifically for baking pies. It can be made of glass, ceramic, or metal.
Pastry brush: A pastry brush is used to apply water or egg wash to the pie crust, helping to seal the edges and achieve a golden, glossy finish.
Foil: Foil is used to cover the edge of the pie during baking to prevent it from over-browning. It helps to regulate the heat distribution and protect the crust.
Knife: A knife is necessary for trimming the excess dough from the pie plate and creating slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
Oven: The oven is the primary appliance for baking the deep-dish blueberry pie to perfection, ensuring the filling is bubbling and the crust is golden brown.

How To Store and Freeze Homemade Blueberry Pie

Let the blueberry pie cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing. This usually takes about 5-6 hours.
To store the pie, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The pie crust may lose some of its crispness, but the filling will remain delicious.
For longer storage, you can freeze the deep-dish blueberry pie:
- Wrap the cooled pie tightly in a layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil.
- Label the pie with the date and contents.
- Place the wrapped pie in the freezer, where it will keep for up to 3 months.
To thaw a frozen blueberry pie:
- Remove the pie from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Once thawed, you can reheat the pie in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
- If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil to prevent burning.
Alternatively, you can thaw the pie at room temperature for 2-3 hours before serving. The crust may not be as crisp, but the filling will still be delicious.
If you want to freeze individual slices, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing them in the freezer. This way, you can enjoy a slice of blueberry pie whenever the craving strikes!

How To Reheat Leftover Blueberry Pie

Here are the best methods for reheating leftover deep-dish blueberry pie:

Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover the crust edges with aluminum foil to prevent burning. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the crust is crisp. This method ensures the pie crust remains flaky and the filling is evenly heated.
Microwave method: If you're short on time, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on medium power for 30-45 seconds, or until warmed to your liking. Be aware that the crust may become slightly soggy using this method.
Air fryer method: For a quick and crispy crust, reheat your pie slices in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the slice in the basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the crust is crisp and the filling is warmed through.
Stovetop method: For a unique twist, try reheating your pie filling on the stovetop. Scoop out the filling into a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Serve the warm filling over a scoop of vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a deconstructed pie experience.

Regardless of the method you choose, always ensure the pie is heated to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illness. Enjoy your perfectly reheated deep-dish blueberry pie!

Interesting Fact About Deep-Dish Blueberry Pie

The blueberry pie is a classic American dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. Blueberries are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants and nutrients, making this pie a healthier dessert option. The combination of sweet blueberries and tangy lemon zest creates a delightful flavor profile that is sure to please any palate. This deep-dish blueberry pie is a perfect way to showcase the natural sweetness of the fruit and is a great way to enjoy a taste of summer all year round.

Is Making Deep-Dish Blueberry Pie at Home Cost-Effective?

This deep-dish blueberry pie recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, blueberries, is relatively affordable, and the remaining ingredients are pantry staples. The pie serves 8, making it a budget-friendly dessert option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering its simplicity, delicious flavor, and economic value.

Is Deep-Dish Blueberry Pie Healthy or Unhealthy?

The deep-dish blueberry pie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of sugar (3/4 cup), which can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues when consumed in excess.
The use of cornstarch as a thickener adds extra calories and carbohydrates without providing much nutritional value.
The flaky pie dough, likely made with butter or shortening, is high in saturated fats and calories.
The recipe lacks any significant source of protein, fiber, or essential vitamins and minerals.

However, blueberries themselves are a nutritious ingredient, packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber. They can help reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and support brain function.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of sugar used, or replace some of it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Use a whole wheat or almond flour crust to increase the fiber content and reduce the amount of refined carbohydrates.
Experiment with alternative thickeners, such as chia seeds or tapioca starch, which offer additional nutritional benefits.
Serve the pie with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of ice cream or whipped cream to add protein and reduce the overall calorie count.
Consider adding other nutrient-dense fruits to the filling, such as raspberries or blackberries, to increase the vitamin and fiber content.

Editor's Thoughts on This Deep-Dish Blueberry Pie Recipe

The deep-dish blueberry pie recipe is a classic and delightful dessert option. The combination of fresh blueberries, lemon juice, and zest creates a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. The flaky pie crust adds a wonderful texture to the pie. However, the baking time of 2 to 2 1/4 hours seems excessive and may result in overcooked filling. I would recommend checking the pie after 1 1/2 hours and adjusting the baking time accordingly. Overall, this recipe has great potential for a delicious deep-dish blueberry pie with a few adjustments.

Enhance Your Deep-Dish Blueberry Pie Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese

Grilled Vegetables: Colorful medley of grilled vegetables marinated in balsamic glaze

Fruit Salad: Refreshing fruit salad with a honey-lime dressing

Chicken Soup: Hearty chicken soup with a medley of vegetables and tender chunks of chicken

Delectable Alternatives to Deep-Dish Blueberry Pie

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: A delicious and healthy recipe that combines ground meat, rice, and flavorful seasonings stuffed inside colorful bell peppers, then baked to perfection.

Mango Coconut Popsicles: A refreshing and tropical dessert recipe that combines ripe mangoes, creamy coconut milk, and a touch of honey, frozen into delightful popsicles for a sweet treat.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A comforting and creamy soup recipe that combines ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and rich cream for a satisfying and flavorful bowl of soup perfect for any time of the year.

Appetizers and Main Courses That Beautifully Accompany Deep-Dish Blueberry Pie

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. The combination of rich cream cheese, flavorful herbs, and earthy mushrooms will leave everyone wanting more.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: This creamy and cheesy spinach and artichoke dip is the perfect way to start any meal. The warm, gooey texture combined with the bold flavors of spinach and artichoke will have your guests coming back for seconds.

Main Courses:

Grilled Salmon: Create a succulent and flavorful grilled salmon dish that will leave your guests impressed. Incorporate a zesty marinade and serve with a refreshing side salad for a well-balanced meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Prepare a delicious and colorful stuffed bell peppers dish that is both satisfying and visually appealing. Fill the peppers with a savory mixture of grains, vegetables, and protein, and bake until tender. Serve with a drizzle of creamy sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.

Why trust this Deep-Dish Blueberry Pie Recipe:

This deep-dish blueberry pie recipe is a trusted classic, perfected over generations. The blueberries are the star, providing a burst of sweet-tart flavor. The combination of sugar and lemon juice enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit, while cornstarch ensures a lusciously thick filling. The flaky pie dough, made with care, adds a delightful crunch. Our chefs have meticulously tested and refined this recipe, guaranteeing a perfect pie every time. Trust in the expertise and passion that goes into creating this blueberry pie, and savor the delicious results.

Want to discuss this Deep-Dish Blueberry Pie recipe further? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know your thoughts, tips, and experiences with baking this delectable dessert.

FAQ:

How can I prevent the blueberry pie filling from becoming too runny?

To prevent the blueberry pie filling from becoming too runny, make sure to thoroughly mix the blueberries with the sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and lemon zest. The cornstarch acts as a thickening agent, helping to absorb excess liquid and create a luscious, jammy filling.

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh ones for this pie?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries for this pie. However, be sure to thaw and drain them before using to remove excess moisture. You may also need to adjust the sugar and cornstarch quantities slightly, as frozen blueberries can release more liquid during baking.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The pie is done baking when the filling is bubbling and the crust is a beautiful golden brown color. This typically takes about 2 to 2 1/4 hours. If the crust starts to darken too quickly, you can cover the edge of the pie with foil to prevent it from burning.

Can I prepare the pie dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the pie dough in advance. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw the dough in the refrigerator before using.

How should I store the leftover blueberry pie?

Store any leftover blueberry pie in the refrigerator, loosely covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It's best to consume the pie within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. If you prefer, you can also freeze the pie for longer storage.