Sweet and Simple Berry Pie

The Perfect Summer Dessert

When the sun is shining and the temperature is rising, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing slice of sweet and simple berry pie. This classic dessert is a summertime staple, and it’s easy to see why. With its flaky crust and juicy, flavorful filling, berry pie is the perfect way to end a summer meal or enjoy a lazy afternoon in the sun.

Choosing Your Berries

The first step in making a sweet and simple berry pie is choosing your berries. While you can use any type of berry you like, some of the most popular choices include strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. You can use just one type of berry, or mix and match for a more complex flavor.

Fresh vs. Frozen Berries

When it comes to choosing your berries, you have two options: fresh or frozen. Fresh berries are ideal if you’re making your pie during peak berry season, as they’ll be at their ripest and most flavorful. However, if you’re making your pie outside of berry season, frozen berries can be a great option. They’re often less expensive than fresh berries, and they’re already prepped and ready to go.

Making the Crust

The next step in making a sweet and simple berry pie is making the crust. While you can use a store-bought crust if you’re short on time, making your own crust is surprisingly easy and can really elevate the flavor of your pie.

A Simple Crust Recipe

To make a simple crust for your berry pie, you’ll need:

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

– 1/4 cup ice water

To make the crust, combine the flour and salt in a large bowl. Add the butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse sand. Add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together in a ball. Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using.

Making the Filling

Once your crust is ready, it’s time to make the filling for your sweet and simple berry pie.

A Basic Berry Filling Recipe

To make a basic berry filling for your pie, you’ll need:

– 4 cups fresh or frozen berries

– 3/4 cup sugar

– 3 tablespoons cornstarch

– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Combine the berries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a large bowl and toss to combine. Pour the mixture into your prepared crust and bake according to your recipe’s instructions.

Serving Your Pie

Once your sweet and simple berry pie is baked and cooled, it’s time to serve it up! You can enjoy it on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Either way, this classic summer dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.