Nothing says summer like a freshly baked mixed berry pie. This recipe combines the tartness of raspberries, the sweetness of blueberries, and the juiciness of blackberries for a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just because, this pie is sure to impress.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of berries offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.
- A flaky, buttery crust complements the juicy berry filling without getting soggy.
- Simple ingredients come together to create a show-stopping dessert that’s easier to make than it looks.
- Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 4-6 tablespoons ice water
- 4 cups mixed berries (raspberries, blueberries, blackberries)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry brush
Instructions
Prepare the Pie Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the chilled, diced butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Make the Berry Filling
In another bowl, gently toss the mixed berries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the berries to release some of their juices.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Roll out one disk of dough to fit your pie dish, leaving some overhang. Pour the berry mixture into the crust. Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Bake to Perfection
Brush the top crust with beaten egg for a golden finish. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
Let It Cool
Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra flaky crust, keep all ingredients as cold as possible and handle the dough as little as possible. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pie crust, but homemade is always better. To prevent a soggy bottom crust, you can blind bake it for 10 minutes before adding the filling. For a glossy finish, brush the crust with a mixture of egg and milk instead of just egg. And remember, the key to a beautiful pie is patience—don’t rush the cooling process!
Recipe Variations
- Add a tablespoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spicy note.
- Substitute half the berries with peaches or apples for a different flavor profile.
- Make a lattice top crust for a decorative touch.
- Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust to make this pie gluten-free.
- Add a handful of chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolate-berry twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen berries without thawing them first. Just increase the cornstarch by a tablespoon to account for the extra liquid they’ll release as they bake.
How do I store leftover pie?
Cover the pie loosely with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the baked pie for up to 3 months.
Can I make the pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling a day in advance and assemble and bake the pie the next day. Alternatively, bake the pie fully and reheat it before serving.
Summary
This mixed berry pie is a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors encased in a flaky, buttery crust. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or any time you crave a fruity dessert. With a few simple tips and tricks, you can make this pie your own and impress your friends and family.
