As the sun starts to warm the days of summer, there’s nothing quite like the allure of a pie that captures the season’s vibrant flavors. Enter the Mixed Berry Slab Pie, a show-stopping dessert that effortlessly combines juicy strawberries and tart blackberries beneath a flaky all-butter crust. What I adore about this recipe is its no-fuss approach; it’s not only quick to prepare, but it’s also perfect for sharing with friends and family during those sunny get-togethers. This berry slab pie can be easily customized with whatever fruits are on hand—be it blueberries or even sweet peaches—making it a versatile delight. Whether you’re cooling down on a hot day or celebrating a summer occasion, this pie is sure to impress. Ready to dive into the world of delicious, home-baked goodness? Let’s get started!
Why is Berry Slab Pie the perfect summer dessert?
Simplicity at its finest: This berry slab pie requires minimal effort, making it approachable even for novice bakers. Juicy, vibrant flavors of fresh strawberries and blackberries ensure every bite is bursting with summer goodness. Versatile variations mean you can swap in your favorite seasonal fruits, such as peaches or blueberries. Perfect for gatherings—it serves a crowd easily, ideal for picnics or barbecues. Finally, beautiful presentation: with its golden, flaky crust, it’s a stunning centerpiece that invites smiles and compliments. For another delightful treat, check out these Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake tacos for an extra sweet addition to your summer spread!
Berry Slab Pie Ingredients
For the All-Butter Pie Crust
- All-purpose flour – A key ingredient for creating a flaky crust; measure carefully for best results.
- Unsalted butter – Ensure it’s chilled and diced; it gives the crust that rich flavor.
- Granulated sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust; feel free to reduce for less sweetness.
- Salt – Enhances the flavor; don’t skip it!
- Cold water – Helps bring the dough together; use ice-cold water for better texture.
For the Filling
- Strawberries – Adds sweetness and vibrant color; fresh strawberries are best, as frozen may result in excess moisture.
- Blackberries – Offers a slight tartness; can be substituted with raspberries or blueberries if desired for your berry slab pie.
- Lemon juice – Brightens the flavor of the filling; substitute with lime juice if needed.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the fruit filling; adjust based on the sweetness of the berries you use.
Optional Topping
- Egg wash – For brushing on the crust to achieve a golden finish; simply whisk together an egg with a splash of water.
- Powdered sugar – A light dusting adds a lovely presentation after baking; consider dusting just before serving.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to creating a delicious berry slab pie that captures all the essence of summer!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Berry Slab Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by making the all-butter pie crust. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in the chilled, diced unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice-cold water, mixing until the dough forms. Divide it in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 2 hours to ensure a flaky texture.
Step 2: Make the Filling
While the dough chills, prepare the berry filling for your berry slab pie. In a large bowl, gently combine halved strawberries, blackberries, lemon juice, and granulated sugar. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes to release juices. Using a slotted spoon, drain excess liquid to prevent a soggy crust, ensuring you’ll have a deliciously firm filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Once chilled, roll out one dough disc on a lightly floured surface, aiming for a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the berry filling evenly over the crust, ensuring it’s well distributed. Roll out the second crust and place it over the filling, then cut slits for steam to escape, giving your berry slab pie a beautiful, rustic look.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top crust with an egg wash (a mixture of whisked egg and a splash of water) for a golden finish. Place your assembled berry slab pie in the oven and bake for approximately 50 minutes or until the crust is a rich, golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the berry slab pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. This cooling step is crucial for cleaner slices and allows the filling to set. Once cooled, slice the pie into squares and serve, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch!
Tips for the Best Berry Slab Pie
- Avoid Soggy Crust: Use a slotted spoon to drain excess juice from the berry filling. This step is essential to keep your berry slab pie crust flaky and firm.
- Chill Dough Properly: Ensure your pie dough is sufficiently chilled (at least 2 hours) to achieve that perfect flaky texture. A warm dough can lead to difficulty when rolling it out.
- Parchment Paper Trick: Roll out your crust on parchment paper to easily lift it onto your baking sheet without breaking. This method saves cleanup time too!
- Golden Finish: Brush the top crust with an egg wash for a beautiful, golden color. This simple step enhances the presentation of your berry slab pie significantly.
- Room Temperature: If your pie dough is hard to roll out, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes. This helps relax the gluten and makes it easier to handle.
Make Ahead Options
These Mixed Berry Slab Pie preparations are perfect for those busy days when you want to enjoy a homemade dessert without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the pie crust up to 3 days in advance. Simply make the crust, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. For the filling, combine the berries, lemon juice, and sugar the day before and store it in an airtight container in the fridge; this allows the flavors to meld while preventing excess moisture. When it’s time to serve, just roll out the chilled crust, assemble your berry slab pie with the prepared filling, and bake. With this foresight, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to impress without the hassle!
How to Store and Freeze Berry Slab Pie
Refrigerator: Store leftover berry slab pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the crust crunchy and preserves the pie’s vibrant flavors.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy your berry slab pie later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature when ready to serve.
Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore the flakiness of the crust and warm the delicious filling.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it separately in the fridge. Just assemble and bake the pie when you’re ready to enjoy it!
What to Serve with Easy Mixed Berry Slab Pie
Looking to create a delightful meal around this summer treat? Let’s explore some delicious pairings that will elevate your gathering!
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The richness of vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the tartness of the berries, making each bite of the slab pie sublime. A classic pairing that never disappoints, it adds a cool, creamy contrast to the warm pie.
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Freshly Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream enhances the pie’s berry flavors, offering a delightful, sweet topping that feels luxurious. A dollop on a warm slice brings an irresistible indulgence.
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Minted Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits, tossed with fresh mint, will echo the pie’s fruity notes. The bright flavors harmonize with the rich filling, creating a light and invigorating side.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A chilled glass of homemade lemonade or sweet iced tea captures summer vibes perfectly. The subtle citrus or tea flavors will cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the overall experience.
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Cheese Platter: Consider a selection of soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese. The creamy texture and mild flavors can complement the sweet and tart notes of the berry slab pie excellently, making for an elegant addition to your table.
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Peach Crisp: For a delightful dessert duet, serve a warm peach crisp alongside your berry slab pie. The combination of sweet summer fruits baked into crispy goodness creates an irresistible finale to any summer meal.
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Sparkling Wine or Prosecco: A bubbly drink adds a celebratory touch to any gathering. The effervescence pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the berry slab pie while keeping the mood light and festive.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For those chocolate lovers, consider drizzling a little melted chocolate over the pie slices. The sweetness of chocolate enriches every bite and adds an exciting twist to the classic dessert.
By incorporating these delightful pairings, your summer gathering will be deliciously memorable and heartwarming!
Berry Slab Pie Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore exciting flavors and adjustments with your berry slab pie; the possibilities are deliciously endless!
- Berry Swap: Substitute blackberries with raspberries or blueberries for a refreshing twist in flavor. Each fruit brings its unique sweetness to the filling.
- Peachy Addition: Mix in sliced peaches along with the berries for a juicy, summery combination. The sweet and tangy blend creates a lovely medley of fruit flavor.
- Coconut Crust: Use shredded coconut in place of some flour for a tropical twist on your pie crust. This adds a fragrant hint that pairs beautifully with mixed berries.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the berry filling for a warm, cozy spice profile. This twist gives your pie an inviting depth of flavor that is sure to please.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Use whole wheat flour in the crust for a nuttier flavor and extra nutrients; just be mindful to adjust the liquid slightly.
- Nutty Crust: Incorporate almond flour or finely ground nuts into your crust mixture for a rich, nutty texture. It adds a lovely crunch that enhances the overall pie experience.
- Lemon Zest: Brighten the filling by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to enhance the fresh fruit flavor. This zing will elevate the juiciness of the berries beautifully.
For more delightful summer recipes, don’t miss out on making these Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake tacos or whipping up some luscious Strawberry Brownies Decadent that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Berry Slab Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best berries for my pie?
Absolutely! When selecting berries, look for ones that are firm and vibrant. Fresh strawberries should be bright red with no dark spots or mold, while blackberries should be plump and shiny. Avoid any that are too soft or have excessive juice, as this can affect your pie’s texture.
How should I store my leftover berry slab pie?
Store your leftover berry slab pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This method will help keep the crust crunchy and the flavors fresh. If you’ve got to make room, a well-sealed piece of foil will also do the trick!
Can I freeze my berry slab pie?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your berry slab pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw at room temperature and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to bring back that flaky crust.
My filling seems too juicy. How can I prevent this?
To avoid a soggy crust from juicy filling, make sure to drain excess liquid from the berry mixture using a slotted spoon after letting them sit for 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial for keeping your berry slab pie filling firm and flaky.
Are there any dietary considerations for this pie?
Definitely! If you’re looking for a low-sugar option, you can substitute granulated sugar with a sugar alternative or reduce the amount based on your fruit sweetness. Just be cautious of allergies; if making for guests, check if anyone is allergic to specific berries included in your filling.
Can pets eat any of the ingredients?
When it comes to sharing with furry friends, it’s best to keep this pie away from pets. While strawberries and blackberries are safe in moderation, the sugar content and crust are not suitable for them. Stick to pet-approved snacks for your four-legged pals!
Berry Slab Pie Recipe FAQs
Delicious Berry Slab Pie: A Summer Slice of Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in the chilled, diced unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice-cold water, mixing until the dough forms. Divide it in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 2 hours.
- In a large bowl, gently combine halved strawberries, blackberries, lemon juice, and granulated sugar. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes to release juices. Using a slotted spoon, drain excess liquid.
- Roll out one dough disc on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Transfer to a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the berry filling evenly over the crust. Roll out the second crust, place it over the filling, and cut slits for steam to escape.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top crust with an egg wash for a golden finish. Bake for approximately 50 minutes or until the crust is a rich, golden brown.
- Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares and serving.
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