Love pie but hate the hassle? These Blackberry Pie Bars deliver all the flavor of blackberry pie without having to roll out the pie dough! Perfect for parties, picnics, or just as a sweet treat at home, these bars combine a buttery crust with juicy blackberries. The ease of preparation makes them a go-to dessert that everyone will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Prep takes only 15 minutes, making these bars a breeze to whip up.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh blackberries and lemon zest creates a delightful burst of taste.
- Versatile Treat: Serve them warm with ice cream, or enjoy them cold as a refreshing snack.
- No Rolling Required: Skip the stress of pie crust; simply press the dough into the pan!
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares and share these delectable bars at gatherings or bake sales.
Tools and Preparation
To make these delicious Blackberry Pie Bars, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline your baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food processor
- 9×13 inch pan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Food processor: Saves time by quickly mixing ingredients to achieve a crumbly dough.
- 9×13 inch pan: Perfect size for evenly baking your pie bars so they cook uniformly.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Zest and juice of one lemon (divided)
– 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter (cut into 1-inch slices)
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups fresh blackberries
– 4 teaspoons cornstarch
How to Make Blackberry Pie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13 inch pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a food processor, pulse together:
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Zest from one lemon
Add:
1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter (cut into 1-inch slices)
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Pulse until the dough is crumbly.
Step 3: Form the Base
Pat half of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan. Save the remaining dough for topping.
Step 4: Prepare the Blackberry Filling
In a medium bowl, stir together:
1/2 cup granulated sugar
4 teaspoons cornstarch
Juice from one lemon
Gently mix in:
4 cups fresh blackberries
Sprinkle this blackberry mixture evenly over the crust.
Step 5: Add Topping and Bake
Crumble the remaining dough over the berry layer. Bake in preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the top is slightly brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Cool completely before cutting into squares. Store in an airtight container for freshness. Enjoy your delightful Blackberry Pie Bars!
How to Serve Blackberry Pie Bars Recipe
Blackberry Pie Bars are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your enjoyment.
With Whipped Cream
- A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that balances the sweetness of the bars.
A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream
- The creaminess of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the tartness of blackberries, creating a delightful contrast in flavors.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- A rich chocolate drizzle brings an indulgent touch to each bite, making them even more decadent.
Fresh Mint Leaves
- Garnishing with fresh mint leaves adds a pop of color and a refreshing aroma that complements the blackberry flavor nicely.
Lemon Zest Sprinkle
- A sprinkle of lemon zest on top enhances the citrus notes already present in the bars, making each bite burst with freshness.
Coffee or Tea Pairing
- Enjoying these bars with a cup of coffee or tea provides a warm and cozy feel, perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert.
How to Perfect Blackberry Pie Bars Recipe
To ensure your Blackberry Pie Bars turn out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind.
Use Fresh Blackberries: Fresh blackberries provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure they are thawed and drained well.
Chill the Dough: For flakier bars, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain structure while baking.
Don’t Overmix: When preparing your dough, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars.
Check for Doneness: The top should be slightly brown; use a toothpick to test if it comes out clean from the center.
Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely ensures they set properly for clean cuts and better presentation.
Store Properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Blackberry Pie Bars Recipe
Pairing your Blackberry Pie Bars with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:
Vanilla Yogurt: Creamy yogurt adds a tangy element that balances the sweetness of the pie bars.
Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits can provide a refreshing contrast and add additional flavors.
Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses can create an interesting sweet-and-savory combination alongside your dessert.
Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola sprinkled on top adds texture and nuttiness that pairs well with fruit-based desserts.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These add elegance and extra sweetness that complements the blackberry flavor beautifully.
Toasted Almonds: Sprinkling toasted almonds over each bar adds crunch and a nutty flavor that enhances overall taste.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the bars introduces richness and decadence that’s hard to resist.
Tea Cake Slices: Light slices of tea cake offer additional sweet bites without overwhelming the palate alongside your pie bars.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Blackberry Pie Bars can be easy, but there are common mistakes that may affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.
- Incorrect Measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much flour or sugar can ruin the texture and flavor of your bars.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of a tender, crumbly texture.
- Ignoring Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is properly preheated. Baking at the wrong temperature can result in undercooked or burnt bars.
- Skipping Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This helps them set properly and makes for cleaner slices.
- Using Old Blackberries: Fresh blackberries are key for flavor. Avoid using overripe or mushy berries as they can affect the taste and texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Blackberry Pie Bars in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Blackberry Pie Bars Recipe
- Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Blackberry Pie Bars Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and heat for 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions related to the Blackberry Pie Bars Recipe.
Can I use frozen blackberries in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen blackberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
How do I know when my Blackberry Pie Bars are done?
The bars are done when the top is slightly brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Can I customize this Blackberry Pie Bars Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, switch out berries, or even include spices like nutmeg for different flavors.
What is the best way to serve these pie bars?
Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of whipped cream for a delightful treat!
Final Thoughts
These Blackberry Pie Bars offer all the deliciousness of traditional pie without the hassle. They are perfect for gatherings or a cozy night at home. Feel free to customize them with your favorite berries or toppings for added flavor. Enjoy baking these delightful treats!
Blackberry Pie Bars
Indulge in the delightful taste of our Blackberry Pie Bars Recipe, where the classic flavors of blackberry pie meet effortless preparation. These scrumptious bars feature a buttery, crumbly crust layered with juicy blackberries and a hint of lemon zest, offering a refreshing twist to your dessert table. With no rolling required, they are perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply enjoying at home. In just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a warm batch ready to impress family and friends. Top them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Zest and juice of one lemon (divided)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter (cut into 1-inch slices)
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups fresh blackberries
- 4 teaspoons cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch pan.
- In a food processor, blend flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and lemon zest. Add butter, egg, and vanilla; pulse until crumbly.
- Press half of the dough into the pan and set aside the rest.
- In a bowl, combine sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and blackberries; layer over the crust.
- Crumble remaining dough on top and bake for 45 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool before cutting into squares.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (40g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
