Blackberry Pie Bars

Blackberry pie bars are a delightful summer fruit dessert recipe that combines the sweetness of fresh blackberries with a buttery crust. These bars are not only beautiful but also incredibly simple to make, making them perfect for picnics, family gatherings, or just a sweet treat at home. Their unique combination of flavors and textures makes them a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these delicious bars.
• Fresh and fruity: The use of fresh blackberries ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile dessert: Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a sweet ending to any meal.
• Perfectly portable: Easy to cut into squares, making them ideal for sharing or packing in lunches.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness or add spices to fit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make your blackberry pie bars perfectly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process and help you achieve great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool makes quick work of blending the crust ingredients together smoothly.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly, ensuring a consistent thickness for baking.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy surface on which to bake your pie bars, allowing for even heat distribution.

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Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling
• 1 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut in pieces
• 1/4 cup shortening (I used butter flavor Crisco)
• 1/4 cup ice water

For the Filling

• 12 ounces fresh blackberries
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tsp Instant Clearjel thickener (substitute 1 Tbsp cornstarch)
• juice of 1/2 lemon

For the Glaze

• 1 cup confectioner’s sugar, sifted
• water for thinning

How to Make Blackberry Pie Bars

Step 1: Make the Crust

Start by making the crust. Pulse the flour and salt a few times in a food processor to combine. Add the cold chunks of butter and shortening to the bowl and pulse about 20 times until the mixture is grainy.

Step 2: Combine Dough Ingredients

Add the ice water, a little at a time, while continuing to pulse until the dough just comes together when you pinch it between your fingers. Stop the machine to check it. Note: you may not need all of the water.

Step 3: Forming the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and bring it together into a ball. Knead any remaining dry flour into the dough. If too sticky, add more flour.

Step 4: Chill Dough

Cut the ball of dough in half, form two flat rectangles, wrap each one in plastic, and refrigerate for 2 hours (or overnight) before rolling it out.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

While chilling, prepare the filling. Put berries into a saucepan. Mix sugar and Clearjel thickener together then add to pan with lemon juice. Cook over low heat until berries soften.

Step 6: Cook Berries

Cook for about 8 minutes until it reaches runny jam consistency while mashing most berries. Chill filling until ready for use.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350F.

Step 8: Roll Out Dough

Lay out parchment large enough for a baking sheet and lightly flour it. Roll out one piece of dough into roughly a 9×13 rectangle.

Step 9: Add Filling

Spoon jam over rolled dough, leaving about an inch around edges free.

Step 10: Seal Bars

Roll out top crust carefully over jam filling; press edges down to seal. Trim excess dough if needed.

Step 11: Bake Bars

Brush with egg wash and bake for about 40 minutes until golden brown. Let cool before glazing.

Step 12: Prepare Glaze

Whisk confectioner’s sugar with water tablespoon by tablespoon until glaze consistency is achieved. Brush generously over cooled pie bars and let dry before slicing.

Enjoy your deliciously easy blackberry pie bars!

How to Serve Blackberry Pie Bars

Blackberry pie bars are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic or simply indulging at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

A La Mode

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast to the tartness of the blackberries.

Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy addition that complements the sweet filling perfectly.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the bars for a decadent touch that enhances their flavor.

Berry Sauce

• Spoon some berry sauce made from mixed berries on top for an extra burst of fruity goodness.

Coffee Pairing

• Enjoy alongside a cup of brewed coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Picnic Style

• Cut into smaller squares and pack them into a picnic basket for an easy-to-eat outdoor dessert.

How to Perfect Blackberry Pie Bars

To ensure your blackberry pie bars turn out beautifully every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps achieve a flaky crust.

• Use Fresh Berries: Fresh blackberries provide vibrant flavor and texture; frozen berries may result in excess moisture.

• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your filling before baking and adjust the sugar according to your preference and the sweetness of the berries.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the bars while baking; remove them when they are golden brown to avoid dryness.

• Let Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool thoroughly before glazing helps maintain their structure when slicing.

• Proper Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Blackberry Pie Bars

Pairing side dishes with your blackberry pie bars can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – The classic pairing provides creamy sweetness that balances the tartness of the blackberry filling.

2. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds color and nutrition, complementing your dessert beautifully.

3. Cheese Platter – Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast to the sweet pie bars.

4. Lemonade – A glass of fresh lemonade offers a zesty drink option that pairs wonderfully with dessert flavors.

5. Chocolate Covered Strawberries – These sweet treats add elegance and a touch of indulgence alongside your pie bars.

6. Tea Selection – Serve with herbal or black tea options for a warm beverage that complements the rich flavors of the dessert.

7. Granola Parfait – Layer granola, yogurt, and fruits in small cups for an additional treat that contrasts texture with your pie bars.

8. Mixed Nuts – A bowl of mixed nuts provides crunch and saltiness, creating a delightful savory-sweet balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making delicious blackberry pie bars, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using warm butter: This can lead to a tough crust. Always use cold butter for a flaky texture.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step can cause the dough to become too sticky and hard to handle. Be sure to refrigerate it as instructed.
• Overcooking the filling: Cooking the berry mixture too long can result in a dry filling. Aim for a jam-like consistency and remove it from heat promptly.
• Skipping the egg wash: This step gives your bars a beautiful golden finish. Don’t forget to brush them before baking!
• Not letting it cool completely: Slicing too soon can make for messy bars. Allow them to cool adequately before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Blackberry Pie Bars

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Blackberry Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 20-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat with a lid, warming gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about blackberry pie bars:

How do I make my blackberry pie bars more tart?

You can add more lemon juice or even mix in some raspberries to enhance tartness.

Can I use frozen blackberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute fresh blackberries with frozen ones. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before use.

What is the best way to cut blackberry pie bars?

Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.

How do I store leftover Blackberry Pie Bars?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Blackberry pie bars are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious and easy to make! They are perfect for summer gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of year. Feel free to customize your bars by adding spices like cinnamon or swapping out blackberries with other berries you enjoy!