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 events, or just a cozy night in, this pie combines the sweet-tart flavor of blueberries with a flaky crust. Its large size makes it ideal for sharing, ensuring no one leaves empty-handed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions and minimal prep time, you won’t need to be an expert baker to create this delightful dessert.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of fresh blueberries and warm spices creates a flavor that appeals to all ages.
• Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s a picnic, barbecue, or birthday party, this pie fits perfectly into any event.
• Impressive Presentation: The lattice crust not only looks stunning but also adds a lovely texture to each slice.
• Customizable Filling Options: While this recipe features blueberries, feel free to mix in other fruits or adjust the sweetness to your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything on hand will streamline your efforts and enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pie dish
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Whisk
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie dish: A sturdy dish ensures even baking and provides the perfect shape for your slab pie.
• Mixing bowls: Various sizes help you efficiently prepare ingredients without mixing up flavors.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out your pie crusts evenly and achieving that perfect thickness.
• Pastry brush: Great for applying egg wash evenly on the crust for a beautiful golden finish.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 recipe blueberry pie filling (about 3 cups of homemade filling)
– 3 9 pie crusts (uncooked at room temperature)
– 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
– 1 egg (any size) (for egg wash)
– 1 Tablespoon water (for egg wash)
– 1-2 Tablespoons coarse sugar (to sprinkle on top before baking)

How to Make Blueberry Slab Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your pie dish lightly with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Blueberry Filling

In a mixing bowl:
* Combine fresh blueberries, powdered sugar, cornstarch, vanilla paste, lemon juice, and ground cinnamon.
* Gently fold until the blueberries are coated evenly.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie Crust

On a floured surface:
* Roll out two of the uncooked pie crusts into larger sheets.
* Place one rolled crust into the bottom of your greased pie dish.

Step 4: Fill the Pie

Pour the blueberry filling onto the bottom crust:
* Spread it out evenly across the surface.

Step 5: Add the Top Crust

Roll out the third pie crust:
* Cut it into strips for a lattice design or simply place it whole on top.
If using strips:
* Weave them over the filling in an alternating pattern.

Step 6: Apply Egg Wash

In a small bowl:
* Whisk together the egg and water.
Using a pastry brush:
* Brush this mixture over the top of your crust for a shiny finish.

Step 7: Sprinkle Sugar & Bake

Sprinkle coarse sugar over the crust:
This adds sweetness and texture. Place in the preheated oven:
* Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Remove from oven:
Allow cooling before slicing to let juices set. Serve warm or at room temperature with ice cream if desired!

Enjoy your homemade 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 hosting a summer picnic or a casual family dinner, serving it right can elevate the experience.

A La Mode

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination that balances the tartness of the blueberries.

Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with fluffy homemade whipped cream for an airy and sweet addition that complements the pie’s flavors.

Lemon Zest Sprinkle

• Add a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest on top before serving to enhance the citrus notes in the pie and add a pop of color.

Berry Compote Drizzle

• Drizzle some berry compote over each slice for added sweetness and extra fruitiness, making every bite even more delicious.

Fresh Mint Garnish

• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a vibrant touch that adds freshness to each serving.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee for an enjoyable contrast of flavors, perfect for brunch or afternoon gatherings.

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How to Perfect Blueberry Slab Pie

To make your Blueberry Slab Pie truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe blueberries: Use fresh, ripe blueberries for the best flavor. Look for plump berries without any signs of mushiness.

• Chill the crust: Keep your pie crust chilled before baking. This helps maintain its flaky texture and prevents it from becoming soggy.

• Don’t overfill: When adding blueberry filling, ensure not to overfill the crust. This will prevent spills and keep your pie looking neat.

• Egg wash for shine: Brush the top crust with an egg wash (egg mixed with water) before baking. It gives your pie a beautiful golden color.

• Use coarse sugar: Sprinkling coarse sugar on top before baking adds texture and sweetness, enhancing the appearance of your slab pie.

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:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: This creamy treat pairs perfectly with blueberry flavors and adds richness to each bite.

2. Lemon Sorbet: A light and refreshing option that contrasts beautifully with the sweet pie, making it ideal for summer desserts.

3. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits complements the blueberry pie while providing freshness and balance to your meal.

4. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses such as goat cheese or brie, which provide savory notes against the sweetness of the pie.

5. Pecan Praline Cookies: These cookies add crunch and nutty flavors that work well alongside fruity desserts like blueberry pie.

6. Honey Yogurt Dip: Serve a yogurt dip sweetened with honey on the side; it’s creamy and enhances the overall dessert experience.

7. Chilled Sparkling Water: Offer sparkling water infused with lemon or mint to cleanse the palate between bites of rich dessert.

8. Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage like coffee or tea provides comfort and balances out the sweetness of your slab pie beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Blueberry Slab Pie can be easy, but certain pitfalls can hinder your results. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Using frozen blueberries: Fresh blueberries yield the best flavor and texture. Always opt for fresh when making your pie.
• Not chilling the crust: An uncooked pie crust that hasn’t been chilled may shrink during baking. Make sure to chill it for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Skipping the egg wash: An egg wash gives your crust a beautiful golden color. Don’t skip this step; mix an egg with water and brush it over the crust before baking.
• Overfilling the pie: Too much filling can lead to a soggy bottom. Stick to the recommended amount in the recipe for optimal results.
• Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your pie while it bakes. Baking too long can cause it to burn, while not enough time can leave it undercooked.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Blueberry Slab Pie in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Blueberry Slab Pie

• Wrap slices or the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Blueberry Slab Pie

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 30-60 seconds until warmed through, but this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5–10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits for this slab pie?

Yes! You can substitute blueberries with raspberries, strawberries, or cherries for different flavors.

Is Blueberry Slab Pie suitable for special diets?

This pie can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free pie crust and adjusting any other ingredients as needed.

How do I know when my Blueberry Slab Pie is done?

The pie is ready when the crust is golden brown, and you see bubbling filling around the edges.

What are some variations of Blueberry Slab Pie?

You can add lemon zest or almond extract for extra flavor. Consider mixing in other berries or spices like nutmeg.

Final Thoughts

This Blueberry Slab Pie is not only visually stunning but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different fruits or spices to suit your tastes. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or any family dessert night. Give this delightful recipe a try!