Blackberry Pie Bars

Blackberry pie bars are a delightful summer dessert that combines the tartness of fresh blackberries with a buttery crust. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply enjoying at home, these bars are easy to make and even easier to eat. Their beautiful presentation and luscious flavor make them a standout treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these bars are perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh blackberries and zesty lemon juice creates a deliciously tangy filling.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve them warm with ice cream or chilled as a refreshing treat on a hot day.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares, these pie bars are easily portioned, making them ideal for parties and gatherings.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the filling in advance, saving you time on busy days.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your blackberry pie bars, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool helps mix the crust ingredients quickly and evenly, ensuring a tender texture.
• Rolling pin: A good rolling pin allows you to easily roll out dough to the desired thickness without sticking.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides even heat distribution during baking, resulting in perfectly golden crusts.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup.

Ingredients

• 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
• 1 egg yolk mixed with 2 teaspoons water
• 12 ounces fresh blackberries
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tsp Instant Clearjel thickener (substitute 1 Tbsp cornstarch)
• juice of 1/2 lemon
• 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.
1. Pulse the flour and salt a few times in a food processor to combine.
2. Add the cold chunks of butter and shortening to the bowl and pulse about 20 times until the mixture is grainy.
3. Gradually add ice water while continuing to pulse until the dough just comes together when pinched between fingers.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface.
1. Bring it together into a ball; knead in any remaining dry flour.
2. Cut the dough in half, shape into two flat rectangles, wrap each in plastic, and refrigerate for at least two hours.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While chilling, prepare your blackberry filling:
1. In a saucepan, combine fresh blackberries with sugar and Clearjel thickener along with lemon juice.
2. Cook over medium heat until berries soften, stirring constantly until it reaches jam-like consistency (about 8 minutes).

Step 4: Preheat Oven & Roll Out Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
1. Roll out one piece of dough into a rectangle large enough to fit your baking sheet.
2. Spoon cooled blackberry filling over rolled-out crust.

Step 5: Add Top Crust & Bake

Roll out your second piece of dough:
1. Place it over the filled bottom layer.
2. Seal edges by pressing down; brush with egg wash before baking.
3. Bake for about 40 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Glaze & Serve

After baking:
1. Let cool completely before glazing.
2. Mix confectioner’s sugar with water until thin enough for glazing; brush generously over cooled pie bars.

Now you have delicious blackberry pie bars ready to impress! Enjoy this sweet treat at your next gathering or as an everyday dessert!

How to Serve Blackberry Pie Bars

Blackberry pie bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply indulging at home, these bars can be served in styles that enhance their flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Serve warm or chilled, topped with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for a rich and creamy contrast to the tartness of the blackberries.

Accompanied by Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pairing blackberry pie bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a deliciously cool experience, especially on warm days.

Drizzled with Honey or Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of honey or maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness that complements the natural flavors of the blackberries perfectly.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Cut the bars into small squares and arrange them on a dessert platter alongside other treats like cookies and brownies for an inviting spread.

With Fresh Berries on the Side

• Serve with additional fresh blackberries or mixed berries for added freshness and color on the plate.

How to Perfect Blackberry Pie Bars

Achieving the perfect blackberry pie bars requires attention to detail during preparation. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your bars turn out beautifully every time.

• Use cold ingredients: Ensure your butter and shortening are cold before mixing. This helps create a flaky crust.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined. Overworking the dough can lead to tough crusts.
• Let the dough chill: Chilling the dough allows it to relax, making it easier to roll out and helping maintain its shape while baking.
• Mash berries gently: When cooking the berry filling, mash them gently to retain some texture while ensuring even sweetness.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the oven towards the end. The crust should be golden brown but not burnt.
• Allow cooling before slicing: Let your pie bars cool completely before cutting them; this helps them set up nicely and keeps the filling from spilling out.

Best Side Dishes for Blackberry Pie Bars

When serving blackberry pie bars, you may want to complement them with delightful side dishes that enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Classic Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to sweet pie bars, balancing flavors beautifully.
2. Grilled Peaches
   Sweet grilled peaches add warmth and caramelization, bridging fruit flavors nicely with your dessert.
3. Savory Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses offers a savory counterpoint, making it an ideal pairing for any sweet dish.
4. Crispy Salad
   A simple green salad with vinaigrette can cleanse the palate between bites of sweet pie bars.
5. Fruit Salad
   A medley of seasonal fruits enhances freshness and complements the berry flavors in your dessert.
6. Chocolate Mousse
   Rich chocolate mousse provides an indulgent option that pairs well with fruity desserts like blackberry pie bars.
7. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips
   These sweet chips add crunch and sweetness, perfect for dipping into any leftover berry filling or glaze.
8. Homemade Lemonade
   Refreshing lemonade serves as an excellent beverage option that cuts through sweetness while adding zest to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Overworking the dough: This can lead to tough crusts. Handle the dough gently and only mix until it comes together.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping this step can result in a crust that shrinks during baking. Always refrigerate your dough for at least 2 hours.
• Using too much filling: Overfilling the bars can cause them to spill over in the oven. Stick to the recommended amount of blackberry filling.
• Skipping the glaze: The glaze adds a beautiful finish and sweetness. Don’t skip it; it elevates the overall flavor and presentation.
• Cutting too soon: Allowing the bars to cool completely helps them set properly. Cutting while warm can result in messy pieces.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap.

Freezing Blackberry Pie Bars

• Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Blackberry Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about blackberry pie bars:

Can I use frozen blackberries for Blackberry Pie Bars?

Yes, you can use frozen blackberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before using them in the filling.

How do I know when my Blackberry Pie Bars are done?

Your bars are ready when the crust turns golden brown and the filling is bubbly around the edges.

What can I substitute for Instant Clearjel in Blackberry Pie Bars?

You can substitute Instant Clearjel with cornstarch by using one tablespoon per two teaspoons of Clearjel.

Can I customize the recipe for Blackberry Pie Bars?

Absolutely! You can add other berries like raspberries or blueberries or even mix in nuts for added texture.

How should I serve Blackberry Pie Bars?

These bars are delicious served chilled or at room temperature. Consider pairing them with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream!

Final Thoughts

Blackberry pie bars are not just a delightful summer treat; they also offer versatility with flavors and toppings. Feel free to customize them based on your preferences, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this easy recipe today, and enjoy delicious homemade dessert goodness!