This Amazing Mixed Berry Pie with Crumb Topping is a delightful dessert that brings together the sweetness of mixed berries, creating a vibrant and flavorful experience. Perfect for gatherings or special occasions, this pie showcases a crunchy crumb topping that adds texture to the juicy filling. Whether you serve it at a summer barbecue or during holiday festivities, this pie will surely impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries creates an irresistible taste that everyone will adore.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick dessert.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can use fresh or frozen berries based on availability, making it adaptable for any season.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This pie is sure to be a hit at any gathering, from family dinners to potlucks and parties.
- Stunning Presentation: The colorful filling topped with crumb adds visual appeal to your dessert table.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the deliciousness of this mixed berry pie, ensure you have the right tools ready. Having everything prepared will streamline your baking process and make it enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Pie dish: A sturdy pie dish ensures even baking and helps maintain the shape of your pie.
- Mixing bowls: Different sizes allow you to mix ingredients efficiently without mess.
- Rolling pin: This tool helps achieve the perfect thickness for your pie crust, making it easier to handle.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- 1 3/4 cups all purpose flour, plus more for rolling
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoon shortening
- 4 tablespoons butter, cold and cubed
- 1 egg yolk, reserve the egg white for brushing crust
- 2 tablespoons ice water, up to 3 tablespoons if needed
- egg wash, (I used egg white mixed with dash of salt) to brush edges of pie
- cooking spray or oil, optional (to oil counter if pie dough is cracking)
For the Filling
- 8 to 10 cups mixed berries, frozen, thawed and drained (see note for fresh fruit)
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 1 small lemon, juiced and zested (use 1 tablespoon of the juice)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Crumb Topping
- 1/4 cup butter, diced
- 1/2 cup oatmeal, not instant
- 1/2 cup all purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
How to Make Amazing Mixed Berry Pie with Crumb Topping
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Begin by making your pie crust. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in shortening and cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in egg yolk and ice water until dough forms. Roll out dough on a floured surface and fit it into your pie dish.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pie bakes evenly once it’s filled.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In another bowl, combine mixed berries, cornstarch, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Gently toss until berries are well coated. Pour this mixture into your prepared crust.
Step 4: Prepare the Crumb Topping
In a separate bowl, mix diced butter with oatmeal, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon until crumbly. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the berry filling.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
Place your pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until topping is golden brown. Allow cooling before serving.
Enjoy every slice of this Amazing Mixed Berry Pie with Crumb Topping!
How to Serve Amazing Mixed Berry Pie with Crumb Topping
Serving your Amazing Mixed Berry Pie with Crumb Topping can elevate the dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this delicious pie that will impress your guests.
Warm with Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream on a warm slice creates a delightful contrast between temperatures and flavors.
Fresh Whipped Cream
- Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the tartness of the mixed berries.
Drizzle of Chocolate Sauce
- A rich chocolate sauce drizzled over the pie adds an indulgent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
Fresh Mint Garnish
- Adding fresh mint leaves not only enhances presentation but also adds a refreshing flavor note to each bite.
Lemon Zest Sprinkle
- A sprinkle of lemon zest on top brightens the flavors and makes for a beautiful finish.
Serve with Coffee or Tea
- Pairing your pie with a cup of coffee or herbal tea creates a cozy, inviting dessert experience.
How to Perfect Amazing Mixed Berry Pie with Crumb Topping
To ensure your Amazing Mixed Berry Pie turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use cold ingredients: Keeping your butter and shortening cold helps achieve a flaky crust.
- Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined to prevent a tough crust.
- Adjust sweetness to taste: Depending on the ripeness of your berries, you may want to tweak the sugar amount.
- Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the pie to cool helps set the filling and makes for cleaner slices.
- Cover edges to prevent burning: Use foil around the edges if they brown too quickly during baking.
- Experiment with berry combinations: Try different ratios of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for variety.
Best Side Dishes for Amazing Mixed Berry Pie with Crumb Topping
Enhance your dessert experience by serving side dishes that complement your Amazing Mixed Berry Pie. Here are some delicious options:
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs well with the fruity flavors and adds a savory element.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast while highlighting seasonal fruits.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt parfaits offer creaminess and additional flavor harmony with berries.
- Scones: Freshly baked scones can add a delightful texture and are great for those who enjoy baked goods.
- Pecan Pie Bars: These sweet bars add nutty richness that contrasts beautifully with berry tartness.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Classic cookies bring nostalgia and sweetness, making them a beloved pairing.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: For a fun twist, serve mini ice cream sandwiches alongside for an extra treat.
- Coconut Macaroons: Chewy coconut macaroons provide an interesting flavor profile that pairs well with berry desserts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the Amazing Mixed Berry Pie with Crumb Topping can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.
- Using warm butter: If your butter is too warm, it won’t create a flaky crust. Always use cold, cubed butter for the best texture.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can lead to a tough crust. Mix just until combined for a tender pie base.
- Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling your dough can cause it to shrink during baking. Chill for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.
- Not measuring berries correctly: Using too many berries can make the filling runny. Stick to 8-10 cups as recommended for a perfect balance.
- Ignoring the egg wash: Brushing the crust with an egg wash gives it a beautiful golden color. Don’t skip this step for a more appealing pie.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Amazing Mixed Berry Pie with Crumb Topping
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months to maintain flavor and texture.
Reheating Amazing Mixed Berry Pie with Crumb Topping
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gradually.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Amazing Mixed Berry Pie with Crumb Topping.
Can I use fresh berries instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh berries work wonderfully! Just make sure they are ripe and not overly juicy.
How do I know when my pie is done?
The filling should be bubbly and the crust golden brown. A toothpick inserted should come out clean from the center.
What can I use instead of oatmeal in the crumb topping?
You can substitute crushed nuts or granola if you prefer a different texture or flavor.
How do I customize my Amazing Mixed Berry Pie with Crumb Topping?
Feel free to mix in other fruits like peaches or cherries for added flavor!
Final Thoughts
This Amazing Mixed Berry Pie with Crumb Topping is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different fruits or toppings. It’s perfect for any occasion, and everyone will love it. Give it a try today!
Amazing Mixed Berry Pie with Crumb Topping
Indulge in the delightful experience of Amazing Mixed Berry Pie with Crumb Topping, a dessert that perfectly balances the sweetness of mixed berries with a crunchy crumb layer. This vibrant pie is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for gatherings and special occasions, showcasing a medley of strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries enveloped in a homemade pie crust. Whether you serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or as part of a festive spread, this pie is sure to impress your guests. Easy to make and adaptable for any season, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons shortening
- 4 tablespoons butter, cold and cubed
- 1 egg yolk, reserve the egg white for brushing crust
- 2 tablespoons ice water, up to 3 tablespoons if needed
- egg wash (I used egg white mixed with dash of salt) to brush edges of pie
- cooking spray or oil, optional (to oil counter if pie dough is cracking)
- 8 to 10 cups mixed berries, frozen, thawed and drained
- 1/3 cup cornstarch
- 1 small lemon, juiced and zested (use 1 tablespoon of the juice)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup butter, diced (for crumb topping)
- 1/2 cup oatmeal, not instant
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for crumb topping)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (for crumb topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- For the crust, mix flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Cut in butter until crumbly. Stir in egg yolk and ice water until dough forms.
- Roll out dough and fit into a pie dish.
- In another bowl, combine mixed berries, cornstarch, sugar, and toss until well coated. Pour into prepared crust.
- For the crumb topping, mix butter with flour and brown sugar until crumbly; sprinkle over filling.
- Bake for approximately 60 minutes until golden brown. Cool before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (175g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
