Blueberry Slab Pie Dessert

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There’s something truly delightful about a slice of Blueberry Slab Pie. This dessert is not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavors, making it perfect for gatherings or simply a cozy night at home. Having made this pie countless times, I’ve perfected the balance of tart and sweet, creating a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to share and even easier to love.

Why Make This Recipe

  1. Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet blueberries with a hint of lemon zest creates a refreshing dessert that’s perfect for summer.
  2. Feed a Crowd: A slab pie serves a generous number of people—ideal for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
  3. Easy to Slice: Unlike traditional pies, slab pies are easy to cut into squares, making them simple to serve.
  4. Minimal Fuss: Made in one pan, this recipe minimizes clean-up time, which is always a bonus after a big meal.
  5. Personally, I love making this pie in late summer when blueberries are at their peak. It’s a great way to enjoy the season’s bounty.

Recipe Overview

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Servings: 12
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Cooking Method: Baking

This simple recipe involves preparing a buttery crust, layering it with fresh blueberries, and baking until golden and bubbly.

My Experience Making This Recipe

When I first tried my hand at a slab pie, I was a bit intimidated by the idea of rolling out dough and handling fruit. However, I quickly realized that with a few simple techniques and the right tools, it was much easier than I thought. The joy of pulling that golden-brown pie out of the oven made all the early efforts well worth it!

How to Make Blueberry Slab Pie

Making Blueberry Slab Pie involves a few straightforward steps. First, we’ll prepare the crust, which is flaky and buttery, a perfect base for the juicy filling. Next, we’ll mix fresh blueberries with sugar and lemon juice. Once assembled in a rimmed baking sheet, the pie will bake in the oven until bubbly and golden brown, with a delightful aroma wafting through the kitchen.

Expert Tips for Success

  1. Chill the Dough: Always chill your pie dough before rolling it out. This firms up the butter and helps create a flaky crust.
  2. Use Fresh Blueberries: If possible, opt for fresh blueberries. Frozen ones can work but might release more moisture, making the filling runny.
  3. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the blueberries before adding sugar. Depending on their natural sweetness, you may want to adjust the sugar to your liking.
  4. Bake on the Bottom Rack: For a nicely browned bottom crust, bake your slab pie on the bottom oven rack during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
  5. Cool Before Serving: Let your pie cool completely before slicing. This helps the filling set up for cleaner slices.

How to Serve Blueberry Slab Pie

Pair slices of Blueberry Slab Pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat. To elevate your presentation, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top or add a few fresh blueberries and mint leaves for color. This pie is wonderful for summer gatherings, picnics, or as a finale to a family dinner.

Storage and Reheating Guide

Store leftover Blueberry Slab Pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Recipe Variations

  1. Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  2. Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil in place of butter for a dairy-free crust.
  3. Mixed Berry: Feel free to mix in other berries like raspberries or blackberries for a different flavor profile.
  4. Enhanced Flavor: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the blueberry filling for a warm spice note.

Nutritional Highlights

Blueberries are rich in vitamins C and K, and they’re loaded with antioxidants. This pie provides a sweet treat while also giving you the benefits of fruit. Just keep in mind that it’s best enjoyed in moderation, especially with its buttery crust!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  1. Runny Filling: If your filling turns out runny, try using slightly less fruit or adding a bit more cornstarch to thicken it.
  2. Soggy Crust: To prevent a soggy bottom, make sure to bake the crust briefly before adding the filling, and also make sure the filling isn’t too wet.
  3. Uneven Baking: If your pie is browning too quickly on top before the bottom is cooked, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil while it finishes baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use frozen blueberries?
    Yes, but it’s best to thaw and drain them beforehand to reduce moisture in the pie.

  2. How do I know when my pie is done baking?
    Your pie is done when the crust is golden-brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

  3. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
    Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge, but remember to let it cool completely before covering.

  4. What size baking sheet do I need?
    A standard half-sheet pan (about 18×13 inches) works best for this recipe, ensuring even baking and enough space for the filling.

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Blueberry Slab Pie


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  • Author: nevaeh-hall
  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A delightful and easy dessert that combines sweet blueberries with a hint of lemon in a buttery crust, perfect for gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
  • 4 cups fresh blueberries
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on sweetness of blueberries)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt for the crust.
  3. Add the chilled butter and mix until crumbly.
  4. Pour in ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together.
  5. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Roll out the dough and press it into a rimmed baking sheet.
  7. In another bowl, combine blueberries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and lemon zest.
  8. Pour the blueberry filling over the crust and spread evenly.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes until the crust is golden and filling is bubbly.
  10. Let cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, chill the dough before rolling and use fresh blueberries.

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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