Berry Slab Pie is the perfect dessert for summer gatherings, featuring a medley of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries nestled in a flaky crust. This recipe takes the classic pie to a new level with a buttery crumble topping that adds texture and flavor. Learn how to bake this delicious slab pie with our step-by-step guide.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 premade rectangular pie dough (or homemade pie crust)
For the Filling:
- 4 cups strawberries, sliced
- 4 cups blueberries
- 4 cups raspberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons lemon zest
- ⅓ cup ground instant tapioca (or cornstarch)
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Pie Crust:
- Roll out the premade rectangular pie dough or homemade pie crust to fit the baking sheet. Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the baking sheet, trimming any excess dough as needed. Dock the crust with a fork.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, sugar, lemon zest, ground instant tapioca (or cornstarch), and salt. Gently toss until the berries are evenly coated.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Spread the berry mixture evenly over the prepared pie crust, leaving a border around the edges.
- Make the Crumble Topping:
- In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, lemon zest, softened butter, and salt. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until crumbly.
- Add the Crumble Topping:
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the berry filling.
- Bake the Pie:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Tips
- Choosing Berries: Use a mix of fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjusting Sweetness: Taste the berries before adding sugar; adjust the amount based on their natural sweetness.
- Crust Perfection: Docking the crust prevents it from puffing up during baking, ensuring an even bake.
Variations
Crust Options:
- Experiment with different types of pie crusts, such as almond flour crust or a graham cracker crust, for a unique twist.
Flavor Enhancements:
- Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumble topping for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Berry Slab Pie pairs beautifully with:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm pie slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.
- Whipped Cream: Dollop homemade whipped cream on top for a lighter option.
- Fresh Mint: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I use frozen berries?
Yes, you can substitute frozen berries for fresh ones. Thaw and drain excess liquid before using.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the pie and store it in the refrigerator, unbaked, for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed before serving.
Berry Slab Pie is a celebration of summer flavors, offering a burst of sweetness in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or craving a homemade dessert, this pie is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and delicious taste. Enjoy the simplicity of baking with fresh berries and delight your family and friends with this irresistible slab pie.
