Homemade Blueberry Pie Classic

This homemade blueberry pie is a timeless dessert that combines a golden flaky crust with juicy, spiced blueberries accented by bright lemon zest and juice. The classic lattice top adds a beautiful finish that invites you in with its inviting aroma and texture.

I first baked this pie on a quiet weekend and was amazed at how the fresh blueberries and zesty lemon made it feel special enough for any occasion

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: the foundation for a tender, flaky crust choose unbleached for best results
• Unsalted butter: chilling the butter ensures the crust stays flaky and rich
• Vegetable shortening: combines with butter to add tenderness and structure
• Fine sea salt: enhances all the flavors without overpowering
• Granulated sugar: sweetens the dough and filling with clean sweetness
• Ice water: keeps the dough cold so it doesn’t become tough
• Fresh blueberries: ripe and dry blueberries are essential for juicy filling
• Cornstarch and flour: together they create a thick, stable filling that slices well
• Ground cinnamon: adds a gentle warmth that complements the fruit
• Lemon zest and juice: provide fresh brightness that balances sweetness
• Egg and whole milk: for brushing the crust to achieve a golden finish
• Coarse sugar: optional for a crunchy topping that adds texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine dry ingredients and cut in fats:

In a large bowl mix flour salt and sugar Add chilled butter and shortening Cut them in with a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs Slowly add ice water mixing gently just until the dough comes together Divide into two discs wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least two hours

Roll out and fit bottom crust:

On a floured surface roll out one dough disc to about 30 centimeters gently transfer it to a 23 centimeter pie dish Trim edges leaving a slight overhang Refrigerate while preparing the filling

Prepare the blueberry filling:

In a large bowl combine blueberries sugar cornstarch flour cinnamon lemon zest and lemon juice Toss well pressing some berries lightly to release juice and fully coat with dry ingredients

Fill crust and dot with butter:

Pour the blueberry mixture evenly into the prepared crust Scatter cubed butter over the top to enrich the filling during baking

Create the top crust:

Roll out the second dough disc to 30 centimeters Cut into strips for a lattice top or leave whole for a solid cover Arrange strips over filling or fully cover Trim and crimp edges to seal

Brush and chill assembled pie:

Beat egg with milk and brush evenly over the top crust Sprinkle coarse sugar if desired Chill the pie in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes to keep dough cold for baking

Bake the pie:

Preheat oven to 218 degrees Celsius Place a lined baking sheet on the rack below the pie to catch drips Bake at 218 degrees Celsius for 25 minutes Reduce heat to 190 degrees Celsius Cover crust edges with foil or a pie shield Bake for 50 to 55 minutes until filling bubbles and crust is golden brown

Cool before slicing:

Transfer pie to a wire rack Let cool at room temperature for at least four hours to allow the filling to set for clean slices

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The lemon zest is my favorite part because it brightens every bite and adds a fresh note that keeps this pie from feeling overly sweet I remember baking this with my family and everyone loving that balance of sweet and tart

Storage Tips

Store leftover pie covered loosely with foil or plastic wrap at room temperature for up to two days Refrigeration is possible but may soften the crust Reheat slices gently in the oven to refresh crispness

Ingredient Substitutions

Butter can be replaced with all shortening for a flakier crust but you lose some richness Vegetable shortening can be swapped with cold coconut oil for a dairy free option Cornstarch may be substituted with tapioca starch for similar thickening

Serving Suggestions

Serve slightly warm or at room temperature with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream Fresh mint leaves add a lovely contrast to the sweetness

Cultural Context

Blueberry pie is a classic American dessert that highlights fresh seasonal berries It is especially popular in summer and around holidays when family gatherings celebrate simple yet meaningful dishes

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Common Recipe Questions

→ What makes the crust flaky and tender?

The combination of chilled unsalted butter and vegetable shortening creates a superior flaky and tender crust texture.

→ How do I prevent the filling from being too runny?

Using both cornstarch and flour as thickeners helps the blueberry filling set nicely without being watery.

→ Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, chilling the dough discs for at least two hours before rolling helps improve the crust's texture and handling.

→ What is the purpose of the egg and milk wash?

Brushing the top crust with a beaten egg and milk mixture gives it a glossy golden finish and helps any sugar sprinkled on top stick.

→ How should I bake the pie to protect the crust edges?

After initial baking at a high temperature, reduce the oven heat and shield the crust edges with foil or a pie shield to prevent burning while the filling finishes cooking.