Grandma Georgia’s Blackberry Pie Recipe

If you have a soft spot for berry pies that bring a burst of summer sweetness wrapped in flaky, buttery crust, then Grandma Georgia’s Blackberry Pie Recipe is about to become your new obsession. This classic pie marries juicy blackberries with a perfectly balanced sweetness and a hint of warming cinnamon, all tucked inside a homemade flaky pie crust that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this pie serves up memories and smiles in every slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Grandma Georgia’s Blackberry Pie Recipe is simple yet plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect filling and crust. Each component adds texture, flavor, and that beautiful deep purple hue that makes this pie a stunner to behold and savor.

• Homemade Flaky Pie Crust: The star that holds everything together with tender, flaky layers that melt in your mouth.
• Fresh blackberries (3 cups for puree): Provide the rich, natural berry flavor that fills the pie with lusciousness.
• Fresh blackberries (6 cups whole): Add bursts of juicy texture throughout the pie.
• Granulated sugar (1 and 1/2 cups): Sweetens the tartness of the berries perfectly without overpowering.
• Cornstarch (1/4 cup): Thickens the blackberry juices into a luscious, sliceable filling.
• Flour (2 tablespoons): Helps stabilize the filling and keep that perfect consistency.
• Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle warm spice that deepens the berry flavor.
• Kosher salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors by balancing the sweetness and tartness.
• Milk (1 tablespoon): Brushed on top for beautiful browning of the crust.
• Raw sugar (1 tablespoon): Sprinkled on top for a delightful crunch and extra sparkle.
• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream: Essential toppings to elevate each pie slice to dessert heaven.

How to Make Grandma Georgia’s Blackberry Pie Recipe

Step 1: Make the Pie Dough

Start by preparing the homemade flaky pie crust. If you’re new to making pie crusts, don’t fret—following Grandma Georgia’s Blackberry Pie Recipe means you get to try it with plenty of helpful tips. A cold, flaky crust is the foundation of this pie’s delightful texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Blackberry Filling

Puree 2 cups of fresh blackberries in a blender to get about 1 and 3/4 cups of pulp. If you don’t have a blender, mash them with a potato masher—whatever works to release those luscious juices! This step ensures your filling is bursting with fresh berry flavor and a vibrant color.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in a Saucepan

To the blackberry pulp, add sugar, cornstarch, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk everything together until smooth and lump-free. This mixture will turn into the thick filling that’s the true heart of Grandma Georgia’s Blackberry Pie Recipe.

Step 4: Cook the Filling Gently

Heat the mixture over medium, whisking occasionally until it thickens and just barely reaches a light boil—this only takes a few minutes. Removing it promptly from heat prevents overcooking and keeps the pie filling luscious.

Step 5: Add Whole Blackberries

Stir in 6 cups of whole blackberries into the thickened mixture, folding in those sweet bursts of berry goodness. Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary; sometimes a pinch more sugar can make all the difference!

Step 6: Chill the Filling Thoroughly

This chilling step is essential for a flaky crust. Cooling the filling prevents it from steaming and turning your crust gummy when baked. Pop it in the fridge or let the frozen berries do the chilling for you.

Step 7: Roll Out Bottom Crust and Chill

On a floured surface, roll out one crust and line your pie pan. Keeping it cold is key here; if it warms up, pop it back in the fridge or freezer before assembling.

Step 8: Add Filling to Pie Crust

Pour the fully chilled blackberry filling into the crust and mound it slightly in the center, ready to be covered.

Step 9: Create and Add Top Crust

Roll out the second crust. Whether you choose a lattice pattern or a full top crust, make sure to vent it to allow steam to escape during baking for the perfect bake.

Step 10: Trim and Crimp Edges

Trim excess dough to about one inch around the edges, fold it under, and crimp with your fingers or a fork to seal the delicious filling inside. Beautiful presentation and a sealed pie crust mean no messy bubbling over.

Step 11 through 20: Bake to Perfection

This stage is a series of essential baking tips—from preheating the oven and freezing the pie before baking to brushing the crust with milk and sprinkling with raw sugar—that ensure that golden-brown crust we all dream about. Using a foil shield halfway through baking protects the crust edges while the center bakes fully. Patience is rewarded here; let the pie cool fully to achieve the right sliceable texture—and remember, vanilla ice cream or whipped cream is non-negotiable!

Step 21 and 22: Storing and Freezing Tips

Store fresh pie at room temperature for two days, then chill. Want to get ahead? Freeze unbaked pies with instructions for baking directly from frozen—perfect for holidays or last-minute celebrations.

How to Serve Grandma Georgia’s Blackberry Pie Recipe

Garnishes

A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of fluffy whipped cream instantly transforms Grandma Georgia’s Blackberry Pie Recipe into a show-stopping dessert. The cold cream beautifully complements the warm, sweet-tart filling.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. For a heartier dessert spread, fresh fruit salad or a simple cheese board with mild cheeses can balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices with a drizzle of warm caramel or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for extra texture. For a special touch, plate a slice alongside edible flowers or fresh mint leaves to brighten the presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Grandma Georgia’s Blackberry Pie Recipe keeps beautifully at room temperature for a couple of days, but to maintain freshness beyond that, cover and refrigerate. Let it come back to room temperature or warm slightly before serving for the best taste.

Freezing

You can freeze this pie unbaked to prepare in advance, or freeze baked slices wrapped tightly. When frozen unbaked, follow the recipe’s instructions for baking directly from frozen, which is incredibly convenient for busy days or entertaining.

Reheating

Warm leftover pie slices in a low oven or microwave just until heated through. This restores the filling’s luscious warmth and gives the crust a slight crispness, bringing the pie back to life with every bite.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blackberries for Grandma Georgia’s Blackberry Pie Recipe?

Absolutely! Using frozen berries can actually speed up the chilling process of the filling. Just be sure to adjust the cornstarch accordingly as frozen berries release more juice, and follow the notes provided to get the best texture.

How do I make sure my pie crust is flaky and not soggy?

Chilling the filling thoroughly before adding it to the crust and chilling the pie before baking are key steps. Also, using a hot baking sheet and venting the top crust help to bake out moisture, keeping the crust flaky and crisp.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the pie ahead, freeze it unbaked, and bake it when needed. This is perfect for prepping for holidays or special occasions without last-minute stress.

What is the best way to cut this pie?

Use a sharp, serrated knife and wipe it clean between cuts to prevent berry juices from sticking and tearing the crust, helping you achieve neat, beautiful slices.

What should I do if my filling is too runny?

Next time, increase the cornstarch slightly or make sure you cook the filling long enough to thicken properly. For this batch, chilling the pie thoroughly before slicing helps the filling set and prevents runniness.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like baking and sharing Grandma Georgia’s Blackberry Pie Recipe to fill your home with warmth, love, and incredible aromas. This pie is a celebration of fresh flavors and comforting textures that never fail to impress guests and family alike. Give it a try and watch it become the dessert everyone asks for again and again.

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