Nothing says comfort like a slice of blueberry pie, especially when it's paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. But the thought of baking a pie from scratch might seem daunting to some. However, with this easy frozen blueberry pie recipe, you can skip the tedious prep work and still indulge in a delicious dessert. Let's dive into how you can make this delectable pie with minimal effort.
Why Choose Frozen Blueberries?
Opting for frozen blueberries over fresh has numerous advantages:
- They are available year-round, ensuring you can make this pie whenever the craving hits.
- Frozen berries retain their nutritional content well, providing vitamins and antioxidants.
- They release juice during baking, which naturally helps to thicken the filling, reducing the need for extra thickeners.
Ingredients for Easy Frozen Blueberry Pie
- 4 cups of frozen blueberries, unthawed
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of cinnamon (optional for a warm twist)
- 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Sugar (for sprinkling)
Steps to Make Your Blueberry Pie
Here is how to bring this delicious pie to life:
- Prepare the Oven and Crust:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place one pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Mix Filling:
In a large bowl, mix the frozen blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and cinnamon (if using). This mixture will thicken once cooked, but don't worry if it looks watery initially.
- Assemble:
Pour the blueberry mixture into the pie crust. Cover with the second crust. Crimp or flute the edges to seal. Cut vents on top to allow steam to escape.
- Egg Wash:
Brush the top crust with beaten egg for a golden finish and sprinkle with sugar for added texture and sweetness.
- Bake:
Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 45-50 minutes. Cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly. The pie is ready when the filling is bubbly and the crust is golden.
- Cool:
Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This patience will ensure a filling that holds its shape.
🌟 Note: If the crust is browning too quickly, cover it with foil, but remember to remove the foil towards the end of baking to allow the crust to crisp up.
As you let this pie cool, your kitchen will fill with the mouthwatering scent of baked blueberries and a hint of lemon, creating an irresistible atmosphere of home comfort.
Can I use fresh blueberries instead of frozen?
+
Yes, you can use fresh blueberries. However, increase the amount of cornstarch slightly to account for the extra juice from fresh berries.
How do I store leftover blueberry pie?
+
Cover the pie with foil or plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for up to two days. Refrigeration can cause the crust to become soggy.
Can I freeze this pie?
+
Yes, you can freeze the pie after baking. Wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn, and it can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
