Bumbleberry Pie

Bumbleberry Pie is a cherished dessert bursting with the flavors of summer. Renowned for its vibrant blend of berries, this pie is more than just a sweet treat - it's a celebration of nature's bounty.

While the term "bumbleberry" might sound like it refers to a real fruit, it is in fact a whimsical name given to pies made from a medley of berries and sometimes even including apples or rhubarb.

The origins of the Bumbleberry Pie can be traced to the Maritimes of Canada, where early settlers would improvise with whatever fruits were available, resulting in this harmonious mixed berry dessert.

Today, the Bumbleberry Pie is widely embraced across North America, gracing tables at family gatherings, summer picnics, and festive holiday spreads. Its unique appeal lies in its ability to combine various berries - strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and more - each contributing its color, taste, and texture.

The result is a pie that is greater than the sum of its parts: tart yet sweet, juicy yet perfectly crusted. Whether served at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream, or warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, the Bumbleberry Pie captures the essence of homemade comfort.

The combination of luscious berries and golden, flaky pastry makes it a perennial favorite for families who value time-honored recipes and the vibrant flavors of fresh fruit.

If you are searching for a way to use up extra berries or to impress guests with a striking dessert, Bumbleberry Pie is an ideal choice. Let us take you through the process of crafting this show-stopping dessert from scratch, complete with baking tips and serving ideas.

Ingredients

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 1 ½ cups fresh blueberries
• 1 ½ cups fresh raspberries
• 1 cup fresh blackberries
• 1 medium Granny Smith apple, peeled and diced (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup light brown sugar
• ⅓ cup cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, diced
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (for brushing the crust)
• 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts or homemade double-crust pie dough
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar, for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and position a rack in the lower third of the oven.
2. Prepare the berries by washing and thoroughly drying them. Hull and halve the strawberries and peel and dice the apple if using.
3. In a large bowl, combine the strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and apple. Drizzle with lemon juice and toss gently.
4. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the fruit mixture. Mix until the berries are evenly coated and set aside for 10 minutes to allow the juices to develop.
5. Roll out the bottom pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess pastry, leaving about a one-inch overhang.
6. Spoon the berry mixture into the prepared crust. Dot the filling with pieces of butter for extra richness.
7. Roll out the top crust and place it over the berries. You can choose a traditional full crust, a lattice pattern, or decorative cutouts. Seal and crimp the edges to secure the filling.
8. Brush the top crust with heavy cream or milk, then sprinkle with coarse sugar for a beautiful finish.
9. Cut a few slits into the top crust to allow steam to escape if using a full crust.
10. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
11. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C), cover the pie with foil if the edges are browning quickly, and continue baking for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
12. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack for at least 3 hours. This helps the filling set before slicing.
13. Once cooled, slice and serve your bumbleberry pie as desired.

Nutritional Information

Bumbleberry Pie is both indulgent and nourishing, thanks to its abundant fruit content. Each serving of this pie (⅛th of a 9-inch pie) delivers approximately 320 calories, with around 7 grams of fat (primarily from the buttery crust), 60 grams of carbohydrates, and 2 grams of protein.

The star ingredients - strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries - are packed with vitamins C and K, as well as dietary fiber and antioxidants. These nutrients contribute to maintaining a healthy immune system, supporting heart health, and promoting good digestion.

The sugars in the pie come naturally from the fruits and are complemented by modest amounts of granulated and brown sugar to enhance sweetness. For those watching their intake, portion control and ingredient substitutions can be considered.

Using a whole wheat crust or reducing the added sugar slightly can boost the nutritional profile without sacrificing much in taste. Overall, Bumbleberry Pie offers a balanced blend of macronutrients and beneficial plant compounds, making it a delightful treat when enjoyed in moderation.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

Bumbleberry Pie shines alongside beverages that complement its sweet and tart profile. A chilled glass of Moscato or a fruity rosé pairs beautifully, as their natural sweetness and hint of acidity accentuate the berry flavors without overpowering the dish.

For non-alcoholic options, consider serving with a refreshing lemon balm iced tea or a sparkling elderflower soda, both of which bring a light, botanical note that harmonizes with the mixed berries.

If you are serving Bumbleberry Pie during the colder months, a mug of spiced chai latte can add warmth and aroma, echoing the cinnamon and nutmeg in the filling.

Cooking Tips and Variations

The beauty of making a Bumbleberry Pie lies in its versatility and adaptability. To ensure success, start with the freshest berries you can find - frozen berries can be used but should be thawed and well drained to prevent a soggy crust.

Mixing in a tart apple or a handful of rhubarb chunks can add an extra layer of flavor and texture, especially if your berries are on the sweeter side. Always taste the fruit mixture before assembling the pie.

Depending on the ripeness of your berries, you may want to adjust the sugar quantity to balance sweetness and tartness. For a gluten-free version, substitute your favorite gluten-free pie crust and double-check that all added ingredients, especially cornstarch, are gluten-free.

To create a striking visual, consider a lattice or braid for the top crust, or decorate with pastry cutouts shaped like leaves and berries. If you love a zesty pop, a touch of grated lemon zest added to the filling will brighten the flavors.

Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing for clean, neat pieces and to allow the filling to set. If you prefer a more rustic look, bake the pie in a cast iron skillet for a golden bottom crust.

Don't forget to serve à la mode with a scoop of vanilla gelato or whipped cream for an extra layer of indulgence. Leftovers can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for a slightly longer shelf life.

Serving Suggestions

To showcase Bumbleberry Pie at its best, serve generous slices on dessert plates, optionally garnished with a dusting of powdered sugar and a few fresh berry sprigs for color.

For a classic presentation, pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on warm pie, allowing the creamy coldness to meld with the hot berry filling. Alternatively, a dollop of homemade whipped cream can lend a light, airy contrast to the rich, fruity texture of the pie.

If you wish to elevate the experience further, drizzle with a berry coulis or a spoonful of lightly sweetened Greek yogurt. When serving at picnics or potlucks, Bumbleberry Pie makes for easy transport; simply pre-slice and package individually.

For an elegant touch at dinner parties, serve alongside a crisp biscuit or tuile for an added textural element. Be creative with your plating - stagger the pie slices and sprinkle edible flowers or mint leaves for a modern flair.

Bumbleberry Pie is also a crowd-pleaser at breakfast or brunch gatherings when paired with coffee, brightening the morning with its vivid flavor and classic comfort.

Health Benefits

Bumbleberry Pie, despite being a dessert, offers more health benefits than many realize, particularly due to its diverse mix of berries. Berries are renowned superfoods, rich in antioxidants such as anthocyanins, quercetin, and vitamin C, known to help fight inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.

They are naturally low in calories and high in dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and promotes satiety. The addition of apple or rhubarb further boosts the vitamin and mineral content, supplying nutrients like potassium and iron.

While the pie crust introduces some fats and carbohydrates, the overall glycemic load is moderated by the fiber present in the fruit filling. Reducing added sugars or opting for a whole grain crust can enhance the pie's nutrition.

Bumbleberry Pie is a smart choice for those seeking to enjoy dessert with the added benefit of fruit-derived vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds. When eaten in moderation, it fits beautifully into a balanced lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bumbleberry Pie is a delightful tribute to the abundance of summer berries captured in a flaky, golden crust. Its vibrant, sweet-tart filling and irresistible aroma evoke memories of family gatherings and sun-filled afternoons. Whether you're a seasoned pie baker or a first-time maker, this recipe offers both the comfort of a classic dessert and the freedom to experiment with the fruits you have on hand. Serve it warm or cold, at special occasions or cozy evenings - Bumbleberry Pie is sure to impress with its beauty and flavor. Try your hand at this homemade recipe and enjoy a dessert that is as delightful to eat as it is to share.

★★★★★ 4.30 from 30 ratings

Bumbleberry Pie

yield: 8 servings

prep: 25 mins

cook: 50 mins

total: 50 mins

A bumbleberry pie is a rustic dessert brimming with a medley of assorted berries baked under a buttery, flaky crust. This classic pie combines sweet and tart flavors for the perfect summer treat.

🖨️ Print Pin Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 1 cup fresh blackberries
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
• 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for topping)

Instructions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out one pie crust and fit into a 9-inch pie dish. Place in refrigerator to chill.
2. 2
   In a large bowl, gently mix the strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. 3
   Pour the berry mixture into the prepared crust and dot with the butter pieces.
4. 4
   Roll out the second pie crust and place over the filling. Trim excess and crimp edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top to vent. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired.
5. 5
   Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. If needed, cover the edges with foil during baking to prevent over-browning.
6. 6
   Cool the pie completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO ↑

Approximate Information for One Serving

Serving Size: 1 serving

Calories: 300cal

Protein: 2 gg

Fat: 11 gg

Saturated Fat: 0g

Trans Fat: 0g

Cholesterol: 0mg

Sodium: 0mg

Potassium: 0mg

Total Carbs: 48 gg

Fiber: 0g

Sugar: 0g

Net Carbs: 0g

Vitamin A: 0

Vitamin C: 0mg

Calcium: 0mg

Iron: 0mg

Nutrition Disclaimers

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.

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