Traditional American Blueberry Pie Recipe

The traditional American blueberry pie recipe is a classic dessert that's adored by many. With its flaky crust and juicy, sweet-tart filling, it's a favorite, especially during the summer when blueberries are at their peak. This pie is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a staple at many American gatherings, be it picnics, barbecues, or family dinners.

Ingredients You Will Need

The beauty of a traditional American blueberry pie recipe lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dessert:

• 5 cups of fresh blueberries (frozen can also work if thawed)
• 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, adjust to taste
• 1/4 cup of cornstarch (for thickening the filling)
• 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• A pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
• 1 egg (for the egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon of milk
• Pie crust for a 9-inch pie (store-bought or homemade)

Preparing the Filling

The filling is the heart of a blueberry pie, and it's quite straightforward to prepare. Follow the steps below to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness:

Start by gently washing the blueberries and removing any stems. In a large mixing bowl, combine the blueberries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Gently toss the berries until they're evenly coated and the sugar and cornstarch are well distributed. Let the mixture sit for about 10 to 15 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors meld and activates the cornstarch to thicken the juices during baking. If your blueberries are particularly tart, you can add an extra tablespoon of sugar, or if they're overly sweet, a bit more lemon juice can balance things out.

Assembling and Baking the Pie

Assembling your pie with precision will ensure a successful bake. Follow these steps:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, roll out one of the pie crusts to line the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate. Transfer the blueberry mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly. Dot the surface with small pieces of unsalted butter, which will melt and enrich the filling.

Roll out the second pie crust. You can use it whole as a top crust or cut it into strips to create a lattice pattern. If using a whole crust, make sure to cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape. If you go with a lattice, weave the strips over the filling to form a traditional lattice pattern.

In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash. Brush this mixture over the top crust to give it a golden, glossy finish. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any overflow juices and bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and juices are bubbling through the slits or lattice.

Guide Steps for a Perfect Traditional American Blueberry Pie Recipe

• Gather all ingredients for the filling and crust.
• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Prepare the blueberry filling by mixing blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt.
• Let the filling rest for 10-15 minutes.
• Roll out the bottom crust and line it in a pie pan.
• Pour the filling into the crust, topping with butter.
• Add the top crust, either whole or as a lattice, and crimp edges.
• Brush with egg wash for a golden finish.
• Place pie on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes.
• Allow pie to cool completely before serving for best sliceability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen blueberries for the pie?

Yes, frozen blueberries can be used in this traditional American blueberry pie recipe. Ensure they are thawed and well-drained before using to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

How do I store leftover blueberry pie?

Store leftover blueberry pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or foil, for up to four days. You can also freeze it tightly wrapped for up to two months.

What's the best way to achieve a flakier crust?

Keep all your ingredients cold, especially the butter, and handle the dough as little as possible. Overmixing the dough can result in a tough crust.

How can I thicken my blueberry pie filling?

Adjust the amount of cornstarch in the recipe if you find that your filling is too runny. Different blueberries may result in varying levels of juiciness.