Blueberry Slab Pie

Beautiful but easy to make! This Blueberry Slab Pie will impress everyone, and most importantly, it tastes delicious. Perfect for summer gatherings, family events, or as a delightful treat to enjoy at home, this pie combines the sweetness of fresh blueberries with an easy-to-manage slab design. Its unique presentation makes it a standout dessert that is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Even beginners can whip up this delicious pie without stress.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Serves up to 16 people, making it ideal for parties or family gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve warm, cold, or with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh blueberries enhances the flavor and nutritional value.
• Beautiful Presentation: The lattice crust design adds an eye-catching element to your dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Blueberry Slab Pie, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Ensures even baking and provides enough space for the slab pie.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the pie crust evenly for a perfect fit in your baking sheet.
• Pastry brush: Ideal for applying egg wash on the crust for a beautiful golden finish.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 recipe blueberry pie filling (about 3 cups of homemade filling)
– 3 9 pie crusts (uncooked at room temperature)
– 1½ cups fresh blueberries (1 pint)
– ½ cup powdered sugar (confectioner sugar/icing sugar)
– 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon vanilla paste
– 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 egg (any size) (for egg wash)
– 1 Tablespoon water (for egg wash)
– 1-2 Tablespoons coarse sugar (to sprinkle on top before baking)

How to Make Blueberry Slab Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when you place your pie in, it starts baking immediately for even results.

Step 2: Prepare Your Crust

• Roll out two of the uncooked pie crusts to fit your baking sheet.
• Lay one crust in the bottom of the baking sheet, pressing it into the corners gently.

Step 3: Mix Filling Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
* Combine the blueberry pie filling, fresh blueberries, powdered sugar, cornstarch, vanilla paste, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
* Stir until well mixed.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

• Pour the blueberry mixture over the bottom crust in the baking sheet.
• Roll out the third pie crust and cut it into strips for a lattice top.
• Arrange the strips over the blueberry filling in a crisscross pattern.

Step 5: Add Egg Wash

In a small bowl, whisk together:
* The egg with water.
Using a pastry brush, apply this mixture over the lattice strips for a shiny finish.

Step 6: Sprinkle Sugar

Sprinkle coarse sugar over the lattice before placing it in the oven. This adds sweetness and crunch once baked.

Step 7: Bake

Place your blueberry slab pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool before slicing into squares. Enjoy your delicious Blueberry Slab Pie!

How to Serve Blueberry Slab Pie

Blueberry Slab Pie is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways. Whether it’s for a family gathering, picnic, or holiday celebration, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your pie experience.

A La Mode

• Serve warm slices of Blueberry Slab Pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a classic and creamy combination.

Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each piece with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy contrast to the sweet blueberries.

Lemon Zest Garnish

• Add a sprinkle of lemon zest over the pie before serving for an extra burst of flavor that complements the blueberries beautifully.

Mint Leaves

• Garnish slices with fresh mint leaves to provide a refreshing touch that enhances the presentation and taste.

Savory Cheese Pairing

• Offer slices alongside sharp cheddar cheese to balance the sweetness of the pie with a savory twist.

Coffee or Tea Pairing

• Serve with freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea to create a cozy dessert experience perfect for any occasion.

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How to Perfect Blueberry Slab Pie

To ensure your Blueberry Slab Pie turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips for optimal results.

• Use Fresh Blueberries: Fresh berries will give you the best flavor and texture compared to frozen ones. If using frozen, make sure they are well-drained.

• Chill Your Crust: Keeping your pie crust chilled before baking helps it maintain its shape and flakiness during cooking.

• Don’t Overfill: When adding blueberry filling, avoid overfilling the crust. This prevents spills and ensures even baking.

• Egg Wash for Shine: Brush the top crust with an egg wash (egg mixed with water) before baking for a beautiful golden finish.

• Bake Until Bubbly: Make sure to bake until the filling is bubbling through the lattice top. This indicates that it’s fully cooked and flavorful.

• Cool Before Slicing: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing. This helps set the filling and makes for cleaner cuts.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Slab Pie

Pairing side dishes with your Blueberry Slab Pie can enhance the overall meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Classic Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the sweet tartness of blueberry pie.

2. Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing, tangy sorbet complements the flavors of blueberries wonderfully, especially on warm days.

3. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color alongside your delicious pie.

4. Cheese Platter: Include various cheeses like brie or cheddar to balance sweetness with savory bites.

5. Greek Yogurt: Serve dollops of Greek yogurt as a tangy alternative to whipped cream; it’s healthy too!

6. Coffee Cake: Enjoy slices of coffee cake as a brunch option when serving Blueberry Slab Pie at breakfast or brunch gatherings.

7. Pecan Tarts: The nutty flavor of pecan tarts creates an interesting contrast when served alongside blueberry pie.

8. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These add an elegant touch and make for a delightful dessert pairing full of flavor contrasts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Blueberry Slab Pie can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overfilling the pie: Adding too much filling can cause it to spill over while baking. Stick to about 3 cups of filling for best results.
• Using cold pie crust: Uncooked crusts should be at room temperature. Cold dough can crack and will not bake evenly.
• Not letting it cool before slicing: Cutting into the pie too early can result in a messy slice. Allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes.
• Skipping the egg wash: An egg wash gives the crust a golden sheen. Don’t skip this step; mix an egg with water for the best finish.
• Ignoring baking time: Each oven is different. Keep an eye on your pie and adjust baking time as needed to avoid burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Blueberry slab pie lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Blueberry Slab Pie

• Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Blueberry Slab Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Blueberry Slab Pie:

Can I use frozen blueberries for my Blueberry Slab Pie?

Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using them in your filling.

How do I know when my Blueberry Slab Pie is done?

Your pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly around the edges.

Can I customize my Blueberry Slab Pie?

Absolutely! You can add other fruits like raspberries or blackberries, or adjust spices like cinnamon for different flavors.

What is the best way to serve Blueberry Slab Pie?

Serve it warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top.

Final Thoughts

The Blueberry Slab Pie offers a perfect blend of flavor and ease, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. Its versatility allows for various fruit combinations and toppings, so feel free to make it your own! We encourage you to try this delightful recipe and impress your family and friends with your baking skills.