The Blueberry Crumble Pie is a timeless dessert that brings together the luscious sweetness of blueberries with a crumbly, buttery topping for an irresistible treat. This pie has its roots in traditional fruit pies, first popularized in rural America when blueberry harvesting was at its peak.

Blueberries, often referred to as "star berries," have been cherished for centuries, prized not only for their vibrant color and tangy taste but also for their nutritional benefits. The fusion of a juicy fruit filling with a crunchy, golden-brown crumble makes this dessert both comforting and crowd-pleasing.

Today, the Blueberry Crumble Pie has become a household staple, especially in the summer months when fresh berries are in abundance. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed as a delightful breakfast pastry, this pie is loved for its rich flavors, simple preparation, and versatility.

While many fruit pies delight the palate, the Blueberry Crumble Pie stands out for its perfect balance of sweetness, tartness, and texture, ensuring it remains a favorite at family gatherings, picnics, and festive events alike.

With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can create a homemade Blueberry Crumble Pie that rivals bakery offerings and brings a touch of nostalgia to any table.

Ingredients

1 pre-made or homemade pie crust (9-inch)
5 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup cornstarch or tapioca starch

1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
½ cup packed light brown sugar

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Place a rack in the center position and prepare a 9-inch pie plate with your pie crust, crimping the edges as desired.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blueberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch (or tapioca starch), lemon juice, lemon zest, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract. Gently toss until the blueberries are evenly coated.
Pour the blueberry filling into the prepared pie crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
In another bowl, mix together the flour, oats, brown sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and salt for the crumble topping. Add the cubed cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the dry mixture until coarse crumbs form.

Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the blueberry filling, covering the berries entirely.
Place the pie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
If the crumble starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover the pie with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.
Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps the filling set properly.

Serve the Blueberry Crumble Pie slightly warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Nutritional Information

A generous slice of Blueberry Crumble Pie typically contains around 350-400 calories, depending on the size and specific ingredients used. Blueberries are a significant source of antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and dietary fiber, making the primary filling naturally healthful.

The oats in the crumble contribute additional fiber, while the moderate use of sugar ensures the filling retains a pleasant sweetness without being overly sugary. The butter in the crumble topping offers richness and flavor, though it does add saturated fats.

Using a homemade crust allows you to control the type and quantity of fat, with some opting for whole wheat flour for extra nutrients. Each serving provides about 5 grams of protein, 60 grams of carbohydrates, and 12-15 grams of fat.

While the dessert is a treat, it includes essential minerals and can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. For added nutrition, the sugar can be reduced or replaced with natural sweeteners, and gluten-free flours can be used for those with dietary restrictions.

Overall, Blueberry Crumble Pie strikes a delicious balance between indulgence and nourishment.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

Blueberry Crumble Pie pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages. A lightly chilled glass of Moscato d'Asti or Riesling complements the pie's tart-sweet berry flavor without overwhelming it.

If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a cup of freshly brewed Earl Grey tea, lavender tea, or sparkling water with a hint of lemon is refreshing. For a richer experience, serve the pie with a creamy vanilla latte or a hot cup of French press coffee.

During the summer, try pairing it with a homemade blueberry lemonade for a fruit-forward, cooling twist.

Cooking Tips and Variations

For the juiciest and most flavorful Blueberry Crumble Pie, use the freshest blueberries you can find, ideally those in season from a local farmer's market. If using frozen berries, do not thaw them before mixing with the sugar and starch; this helps prevent excess liquid in the filling.

To further thicken a runny filling, increase the cornstarch by one tablespoon or sprinkle a thin layer of ground almonds beneath the berries in the crust. Experiment with the crumble topping by adding chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds for extra crunch.

If you love a tart finish, increase the lemon juice or zest slightly. For a different flavor, mix in a few raspberries or blackberries. The pie crust can be homemade or store-bought based on your preference and available time.

Blind-baking the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling helps prevent sogginess. For a rustic presentation, opt for a free-form galette style instead of using a pie plate. Gluten-free flour blends work well in both the crust and the crumble if needed.

Remember to let the pie cool thoroughly to allow the filling to set; rushing this step may result in a runny pie. Finally, a sprinkle of turbinado sugar on the crumble before baking adds a delightful crunch and sparkle.

Serving Suggestions

Blueberry Crumble Pie is best served slightly warm, as this enhances the aroma and texture of both the filling and the topping. Allow the pie to rest for at least two hours after it comes out of the oven, ensuring the filling sets up and slices cleanly.

Serve generous wedges on classic dessert plates, perhaps dressed up with a dollop of softly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For an extra touch, sprinkle a few fresh blueberries or a dusting of powdered sugar on top before serving.

The pie's beautiful color and rustic crumble make it a standout at any gathering, whether it's a summer picnic, holiday dinner, or weekend brunch. Leftover pie can be gently reheated in a low oven or enjoyed at room temperature the next day.

For festive occasions, garnish each slice with a mint leaf, lemon zest, or even a drizzle of berry coulis. Blueberry Crumble Pie also makes an appealing breakfast pastry when paired with Greek yogurt and a fresh cup of coffee.

Whether served plain or with creative garnishes, this pie is sure to delight your guests.

Health Benefits

The Blueberry Crumble Pie offers several health benefits, primarily due to the blueberries used as the main ingredient. Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and support a healthy immune system.

They are also loaded with vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese, and fiber-all beneficial for heart health, digestion, and overall wellness. While pie is often considered an indulgence, this recipe's use of oats in the crumble adds whole-grain goodness and extra fiber, supporting healthy cholesterol levels.

Substituting part of the sugar with natural sweeteners or reducing the overall amount can lower the glycemic impact. Additionally, making your own pie crust gives you control over ingredients, allowing options like less saturated fat or even gluten-free alternatives for those with sensitivities.

Though butter is used in the topping, it can be partially replaced with coconut oil for a lighter, dairy-free version while still maintaining a satisfying texture. Compared to many dessert options, this pie delivers a satisfying treat with the added bonus of fruit-derived nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh for Blueberry Crumble Pie?

Yes, frozen blueberries work wonderfully for Blueberry Crumble Pie. Simply use them straight from the freezer without thawing to prevent excess liquid in your filling.

How do I keep the bottom crust from getting soggy?

To avoid a soggy bottom crust, you can blind-bake the pie crust for 10 minutes before adding the blueberry filling or sprinkle a thin layer of ground almonds or breadcrumbs on the crust prior to filling.

Can I make Blueberry Crumble Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! Blueberry Crumble Pie can be baked a day in advance. Store at room temperature for up to 12 hours, or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Warm it slightly before serving if desired.

Is this pie recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, you can substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour in both the crust and the crumble topping to make the Blueberry Crumble Pie gluten-free without sacrificing taste.

What should I do if my pie filling is too runny?

If the pie filling seems too runny, increase the amount of cornstarch, and allow the pie to cool fully before slicing. This helps the filling firm up and hold its shape.

Blueberry Crumble Pie stands as a delightful blend of classic flavors and comforting textures, making it a favorite for all occasions. With its juicy, antioxidant-rich filling and a buttery, crisp crumble topping, this pie provides the perfect finish to any meal or celebration. Whether you're an experienced baker or trying your hand at pie-making for the first time, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Enjoy it served warm or cold, with your favorite beverage and company. From backyard barbecues to holiday feasts, Blueberry Crumble Pie never fails to impress, earning its place as a cherished dessert in kitchens everywhere.