Four Berry Pie

When summer arrives, the thought of a Four Berry Pie instantly brings me joy. I have fond memories of picking fresh berries with my family, with the sun shining overhead and laughter filling the air. Each bite of this pie takes me back to those carefree days, where the sweetness of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries dances on my palate. Making this pie has become a beloved tradition in my kitchen, especially during berry season. It’s the perfect dessert for any gathering, whether it’s a family barbecue or a simple evening at home. The vibrant colors and delightful aroma create an inviting atmosphere, making it hard to resist. Once you taste this pie, you’ll understand why it has a special place in my heart.

What to Buy for Four Berry Pie

Choosing the right ingredients is crucial for a delicious Four Berry Pie. The philosophy behind this recipe is simple: use fresh, quality ingredients that complement each other. The key players include a buttery crust and a medley of ripe berries, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 12 tablespoons unsalted cold butter, cut into ½ inch chunks
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ½ to ¾ cup ice cold water
• 6 cups fresh berries, like strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries, rinsed and stems removed
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• Juice and zest of ½ lemon
• Pinch of kosher salt
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon cream
• Caster sugar

Step by Step Guide for Four Berry Pie

Making a Four Berry Pie is a fun and rewarding experience. Let’s break it down step by step, so you can enjoy each moment of creating this delightful dessert.

1. Start by preparing the pastry. Add flour, butter, salt, and sugar to the bowl of a food processor. Pulse it four to five times until the butter is the size of small peas. This ensures a flaky crust.

2. Next, don’t overmix! Add ¼ cup of ice cold water and pulse on and off until the pastry is just combined. You want to see that beautiful contrast of dry and wet ingredients.

3. Now, add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together when pressed. It should feel slightly tacky but manageable.

4. Turn the mixture out onto a floured surface. Knead it a few times gently to bring it together, then divide it into two discs. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.

5. While the dough chills, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, mix the berries, flour, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will create a sweet and tangy filling.

6. After an hour, it’s time to roll out the dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each piece into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Aim for that perfect thickness; not too thin!

7. Place one crust in a deep dish pie pan, allowing some excess pastry to hang over the sides. This will help seal in all that delicious filling.

8. Using a ¾”-diameter pastry tip or a wide straw, punch out holes in the remaining crust. Aim to cover an area just smaller than the diameter of the pie dish, creating a beautiful design.

9. Now, pour the berry mixture into the prepared pie crust. Top it with the second, punched out crust, folding the edges of the top crust under the edge of the bottom crust to crimp and seal.

10. In a small bowl, stir together egg and cream. Brush this egg wash over the top crust, then sprinkle with caster sugar to create a golden finish.

11. Refrigerate the pie for about 30 minutes to help it firm up before baking. This will enhance the texture.

12. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You should see the crust turn a beautiful golden brown and the filling bubbling.

13. Once done, allow the pie to rest for about 30 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the juices settle, making for cleaner slices.

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to mix things up with your Four Berry Pie, here are some fun variations to consider:

• Different Berries: Feel free to experiment with other berries like black currants or boysenberries for a unique flavor profile.
• Mixed Spices: Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can elevate the flavor and give it a warm touch.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Serving Suggestions: Try serving with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Mini Pies: For a fun twist, make individual mini berry pies using muffin tins.
• Topper Ideas: Add a crumb topping made of oats and brown sugar for added texture and sweetness.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Four Berry Pie, there are countless delightful options to consider:

• Warm or Cold: Serve the pie warm, straight from the oven, or let it cool completely and serve it chilled. Both options are delicious!
• Ice Cream Pairing: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top is a classic choice that complements the pie’s sweetness.
• Fresh Mint: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and a refreshing flavor contrast.
• Seasonal Celebrations: This pie is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, and family reunions, making it a staple for any occasion.
• Breakfast Treat: Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee for a sweet start to the day.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge. A slice is just as delightful the next day.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Four Berry Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of summer flavors and family traditions. With its blend of sweet and tart berries nestled in a flaky crust, it’s bound to impress anyone who gets a slice. I encourage you to try making it yourself; gather your fresh berries and create something truly special for your next gathering. Your loved ones will thank you for this delicious treat!

Four Berry Pie

The ultimate summer dessert, this Four Berry Pie is bursting with fresh flavors and a flaky crust. Perfect for picnics and gatherings, it will satisfy your sweet tooth with every bite. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful dessert tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 12 tablespoons unsalted cold butter, cut into ½ inch chunks
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ½ to ¾ cup ice cold water
• 6 cups fresh berries, like strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries, rinsed and stems removed
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 each lemon juice and zest
• 1 pinch kosher salt
• 1 each egg
• 1 tablespoon cream
• 1 tablespoon caster sugar

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Baking Sheet
• Food Processor
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Start by preparing the pastry. Add flour, butter, salt, and sugar to the bowl of a food processor. Pulse it four to five times until the butter is the size of small peas. This ensures a flaky crust.
2. Next, don’t overmix! Add ¼ cup of ice cold water and pulse on and off until the pastry is just combined. You want to see that beautiful contrast of dry and wet ingredients.
3. Now, add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together when pressed. It should feel slightly tacky but manageable.
4. Turn the mixture out onto a floured surface. Knead it a few times gently to bring it together, then divide it into two discs. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.
5. While the dough chills, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, mix the berries, flour, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will create a sweet and tangy filling.
6. After an hour, it’s time to roll out the dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each piece into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Aim for that perfect thickness; not too thin!
7. Place one crust in a deep dish pie pan, allowing some excess pastry to hang over the sides. This will help seal in all that delicious filling.
8. Using a ¾”-diameter pastry tip or a wide straw, punch out holes in the remaining crust. Aim to cover an area just smaller than the diameter of the pie dish, creating a beautiful design.
9. Now, pour the berry mixture into the prepared pie crust. Top it with the second, punched out crust, folding the edges of the top crust under the edge of the bottom crust to crimp and seal.
10. In a small bowl, stir together egg and cream. Brush this egg wash over the top crust, then sprinkle with caster sugar to create a golden finish.
11. Refrigerate the pie for about 30 minutes to help it firm up before baking. This will enhance the texture.
12. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You should see the crust turn a beautiful golden brown and the filling bubbling.
13. Once done, allow the pie to rest for about 30 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the juices settle, making for cleaner slices.

Notes

• Tip 1: You can substitute the berries with frozen ones, but fresh is always best for flavor.
• Tip 2: Ensure the butter is cold to maintain a flaky crust.
• Tip 3: Don’t skip the dough chilling time; it’s essential for the texture.
• Tip 4: Allow the pie to cool before slicing for better presentation.
• Tip 5: Serve with a scoop of ice cream for a delicious treat.

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Meet Tessa Gray

I’m the “Poppy” I bring a touch of brightness and artistry to our kitchen. As our head baker, I specialize in wild-yeast sourdough and delicate pastries that use seasonal fruits and edible flowers. While I love baking, I’m also always helping Chloe and Maya cook our savory dishes. I believe every hearty meal deserves a beautiful, sweet finish!