This delightful pie, traditionally made with cherries, is a nod to classic American dessert culture. With a personal touch, it's been transformed into a versatile treat that allows for the use of mixed berries or a single fruit type. The result is an irresistibly charming and colorful pie that will captivate your taste buds and become a beloved addition to your dessert repertoire.
Why You'll Love This: This Berry Delight Pie brings together the sweet and tangy flavors of your favorite berries, encased in a flaky, buttery crust. Whether you opt for a mix of seasonal berries or stick to a single variety, each bite offers a burst of freshness and sweetness, complemented by a subtle crunch. It's a perfect balance of textures and flavors that berry lovers will find absolutely enchanting.
Perfect Occasion: This pie is ideal for any gathering where a touch of elegance and a splash of vibrant flavors are desired. Serve it at family reunions, holiday feasts, or summer picnics. It's also a splendid choice for a comforting dessert on a cozy evening or as a celebratory treat at festive occasions.
Decoration Tips: For an exquisite presentation, consider adding a lattice top, which allows the vivid colors of the berry filling to peek through, creating a visually appealing dessert. Before baking, sprinkle a light dusting of sugar over the crust for a shimmering, crispy finish. Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enrich the experience.
Ingredients for the Berry Filling:
- 600 grams of mixed berries, fresh or frozen (depending on the season)
- 150 grams of sugar
- 30 grams of cornstarch mixed in 1/4 cup of cold water
Ingredients for the Dough:
- 175 grams of butter, cold and cubed
- 250 grams of all-purpose flour
- A pinch of salt
- 6 tablespoons of ice water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Berry Filling:
- In a saucepan over low heat, combine the berries and sugar. Allow the berries to thaw and release their juices.
- Once the mixture is warm and juicy, add the cornstarch solution. Continue to cook over low heat, stirring continuously for 20 minutes, until the mixture thickens.
- Transfer the filling to a container and refrigerate until completely cooled.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a dry bowl, combine the cold, cubed butter, flour, and a pinch of salt. Rub the ingredients together with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
- Add ice water and gently press the dough together without kneading; just enough to combine it roughly. Chill the covered dough in the refrigerator.
- Divide the dough into two parts. Roll out two circles; one should be larger than the other. Fit the larger one into your pie dish, and cut strips from the smaller one for a lattice top.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Neatly arrange the dough in your pie dish, trimming and crimping the edges.
- Pour in the chilled berry filling and cover with the lattice strips. Sprinkle sugar over the top for added crunch.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 170 degrees Celsius for about one hour.
Allow the pie to cool thoroughly before serving, especially if you plan to unmold it. This cooling step ensures that the filling sets perfectly, making your Berry Delight Pie not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes.
Enjoy!