Old-Fashioned Blackberry Pie

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Old-Fashioned Blackberry Pie is a true crowd-pleaser, combining the richness of a buttery, golden crust with the natural sweetness of fresh blackberries. The lemon zest and juice add a touch of brightness that perfectly complements the berries, while the cornstarch helps thicken the filling, giving it that signature gooey texture. With just a few simple ingredients, this pie is an easy-to-make classic that’s as satisfying to bake as it is to eat. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ll have a dessert that’s nothing short of perfection.

Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh blackberries or dewberries (about 1.75 pounds)
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 2 disks refrigerated pie dough
• 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small cubes
• 1 egg

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh blackberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Gently toss the ingredients together until the berries are evenly coated. Set aside to let the filling rest and thicken for about 10-15 minutes.
2. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Prepare the pie crust: Roll out one of the pie dough disks on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Gently transfer the dough into the pie dish, trimming any excess dough hanging over the edges.
4. Fill the pie: Pour the blackberry filling into the pie crust. Dot the filling with small cubes of butter, distributing them evenly across the top.
5. Top the pie: Roll out the second disk of dough and lay it over the pie filling. Trim the excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie. Use a sharp knife to cut several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
6. Egg wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg. Brush the egg wash over the top of the pie crust to give it a golden, glossy finish.
7. Bake the pie: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, then bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
8. Cool and serve: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving. This gives the filling time to set properly. Serve the pie at room temperature or slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 45-50 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes (plus cooling time)

Variations

• Other berries: While blackberries are the star of this pie, you can substitute them with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries, or even use a mix of berries for a delicious twist.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
• Crumb topping: For a different texture, you can replace the top crust with a crumb topping made from butter, sugar, flour, and oats.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered loosely with plastic wrap or foil. It will keep for 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or warm the entire pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blackberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen blackberries can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using them in the filling to prevent excess liquid in the pie.

Can I make the pie dough from scratch?

Of course! While refrigerated pie dough is convenient, you can certainly make your own homemade pie crust if you prefer. A classic butter-based crust works perfectly for this pie.

How can I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

To prevent a soggy crust, try pre-baking (blind baking) the bottom crust for 10-15 minutes before adding the filling. This helps create a barrier between the filling and the dough.

Can I use a different type of sugar for the filling?

Yes, you can use other sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar, but these may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the pie.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the crust is golden brown, and the filling is bubbling through the slits in the top crust. If the filling starts to spill out of the slits, it’s a sign the pie is ready.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pie in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, or bake it straight from the fridge with a few extra minutes of baking time.

How do I store the pie after baking?

Let the pie cool completely before storing it. Keep it covered with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze this pie?

Yes, this pie freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it in the oven.

Can I make this pie gluten-free?

Yes, simply use a gluten-free pie crust to make this recipe gluten-free. The filling ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How can I make the filling less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet pie, reduce the sugar by ¼ cup, and add a little extra lemon juice for balance.

Conclusion

This Old-Fashioned Blackberry Pie is a simple yet timeless dessert that brings the taste of summer right to your table. With its luscious filling, buttery crust, and a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, it’s the kind of dessert that will bring everyone back for seconds. Whether you’re enjoying it with family, friends, or alone with a cup of coffee, this pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.

Print