Three Berry Pie Recipe

Flour: The base for the pie crust, providing structure and texture.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flakiness to the pie crust.

Ice water: Helps bring the dough together without making it too sticky.

Strawberries: Adds sweetness and a juicy texture to the filling.

Blueberries: Contributes a burst of flavor and color to the pie.

Raspberries: Provides a tart contrast to the sweetness of the other berries.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling and helps create a syrupy consistency.

Cornstarch: Thickens the berry filling to prevent it from being too runny.

Lemon juice: Adds a tangy brightness to the filling.

Lemon zest: Enhances the citrus flavor and adds a fragrant aroma.

When making the pie crust, ensure that the butter is very cold and cut into small cubes before mixing with the flour. This helps create a flaky texture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. When adding the ice water, do so gradually and mix just until the dough comes together. Overworking the dough can result in a tough crust.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the crust denser.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used for a dairy-free option, but it may alter the flavor slightly.

• ice water - Substitute with cold milk: Cold milk can add a bit more richness to the dough.

• strawberries - Substitute with blackberries: Blackberries provide a similar texture and tartness, making them a good alternative.

• blueberries - Substitute with cherries: Cherries offer a similar sweetness and juiciness, though they may need to be pitted first.

• raspberries - Substitute with cranberries: Cranberries add a tart flavor, though they are less sweet and may need additional sugar.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and a slight floral note, but it will also add moisture.

• cornstarch - Substitute with tapioca starch: Tapioca starch thickens similarly to cornstarch and is a good gluten-free option.

• lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor.

• lemon zest - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest offers a different citrus note but still adds a fresh, zesty flavor.

• To store your three berry pie, let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cover it loosely with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This will help maintain the freshness of the berries and the crispness of the crust.

• If you want to freeze the pie, first ensure it has cooled completely. Wrap the entire pie tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with a layer of aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps prevent freezer burn and preserves the flavor. You can freeze the pie for up to 2 months.

• For individual slices, place each slice on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, wrap each slice in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method allows you to enjoy a slice of three berry pie whenever you crave it.

• When you're ready to enjoy your frozen pie, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help revive the crust and make the filling bubbly again.

• If you prefer a quicker option, you can microwave individual slices. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid overheating, which can make the crust soggy.

• For an extra touch, serve your three berry pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast between the warm pie and the cold topping creates a delightful dessert experience.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover Three Berry Pie on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the crust from over-browning. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is warmed through and the crust is crisp.

• For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place a slice of Three Berry Pie on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating. This method may result in a softer crust.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the Three Berry Pie slice in the basket and heat for 5-7 minutes. This method helps maintain a crispy crust while warming the filling evenly.

• For a stovetop method, use a skillet over medium-low heat. Place the Three Berry Pie slice in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-10 minutes, checking frequently to ensure the crust doesn't burn and the filling is heated through.

• Oven: Used to bake the pie at the required temperature of 375°F (190°C).

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the flour and butter, and later to mix the berries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and zest.

• Pastry cutter: Helps to cut the cold butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

• Plastic wrap: Used to wrap the dough halves before refrigerating them for 30 minutes.

• Rolling pin: Used to roll out the dough to fit into the pie dish and to cover the pie filling.

• Pie dish: The dish where the pie crust and filling are placed before baking.

• Knife: Used to cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the flour, butter, berries, sugar, and ice water accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the cornstarch, lemon juice, and lemon zest accurately.

• Refrigerator: Used to chill the dough for 30 minutes to ensure it is firm and easy to roll out.

• Cooling rack: Used to cool the pie after baking to ensure it sets properly before serving.

Prepare the dough in advance: Make the pie crust a day ahead and refrigerate it. This allows you to focus on the filling on the day of baking.

Use pre-cut butter: Pre-cut and freeze the butter cubes. This ensures they stay cold and saves you time during dough preparation.

Mix berries beforehand: Combine the berries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and zest in advance. Store in the fridge until ready to use.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven while you prepare the pie. This ensures it reaches the right temperature by the time you're ready to bake.