There’s nothing quite like a homemade blueberry pie—its sweet and tangy filling nestled in a flaky, buttery crust. This vegan version captures all the traditional flavors of a classic blueberry pie while keeping it entirely plant-based. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering, a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, this pie is a delightful way to enjoy the natural sweetness of blueberries. With fresh or frozen blueberries, a hint of lemon, and a perfectly golden crust, this recipe proves that vegan desserts can be just as rich and satisfying as their traditional counterparts. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make this a go-to dessert for any occasion.
Did You Know?
Blueberry pie is a beloved dessert in North America, especially in the United States and Canada, where blueberries are native. The first recorded blueberry pie recipe dates back to the early 19th century. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthy addition to your diet. Our Vegan Blueberry Pie uses fresh or frozen blueberries and a flaky, buttery crust made from plant-based ingredients, offering a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of blueberries in every bite!
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients
For the Crust:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup vegan butter, cold and cubed (or regular butter for non-vegan)
6-8 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
4 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold vegan butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Personal Tip: Keep the butter as cold as possible to ensure a flaky crust.
Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into disks, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Personal Tip: Don’t overwork the dough; this will help keep the crust tender and flaky.
Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the blueberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt. Toss to coat the blueberries evenly.
Personal Tip: If using frozen blueberries, no need to thaw them—just add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch to the filling to absorb excess moisture.
Assemble the Pie:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out one disk of dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Transfer the dough to the pan and trim any excess.
Pour the blueberry filling into the crust, spreading it out evenly.
Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the blueberries. Trim the excess and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Personal Tip: For a golden finish, brush the top crust with a little plant-based milk and sprinkle with sugar.
Bake the Pie:
Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
Personal Tip: If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Let the pie cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 350, Fat: 15g, Saturated Fat: 5g, Carbohydrates: 50g, Fiber: 4g, Sugars: 25g, Protein: 4g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Bulk Buying: Purchase flour, sugar, and blueberries in bulk. These staples have a long shelf life and can be used in various recipes, reducing the cost per unit.
- Homemade Vegan Butter: If vegan butter is expensive, consider making your own by blending plant-based oils and ingredients at home. This can be more cost-effective and ensures you always have a fresh supply.
- Reusable Storage: Use reusable silicone pie pans and glass containers for storing your pie. This is more environmentally friendly and can save you money over time compared to disposable options.
- Energy Efficiency: Preheat your oven only when you are ready to bake, and bake multiple items at once if possible. This saves on energy costs and makes your baking process more efficient.
- Ingredient Substitutions: If granulated sugar is unavailable or too expensive, use a homemade simple syrup made with equal parts sugar and water as a sweetener.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries to add variety to your pie without additional cost.
- Smart Storage: Store any leftover pie in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for several days, providing a convenient and delicious snack.
- Learning and Sharing: Join online vegan baking communities for more recipe ideas and tips. Sharing your own experiences can also help others and foster a sense of community.
- Homemade Extracts: Make your own vanilla extract by soaking vanilla beans in vodka. This homemade extract is more cost-effective and provides a rich flavor for your desserts.
- Creative Decorations: Garnish the pie with additional lemon zest, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a lattice crust to add a professional touch to your presentation.
Let’s Learn About Blueberries
Blueberries are often hailed as a superfood, and for good reason. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, blueberries are not only delicious but also offer numerous health benefits. They are known to support heart health, improve brain function, and help reduce inflammation.
How Blueberries are Grown and Harvested:
Blueberries are grown in acidic, well-drained soil and require full sunlight. They are harvested by hand or machine, depending on the farm size. Fresh blueberries are typically in season during the summer months, but frozen blueberries are available year-round and maintain their nutritional benefits.
Pesticide Use on Blueberries:
Like many fruits, conventionally grown blueberries can be sprayed with pesticides. If you're concerned about pesticide exposure, look for organic blueberries, which are grown without the use of synthetic chemicals. Even if you purchase non-organic blueberries, washing them thoroughly can help remove some of the residue.
Storing Blueberries:
Fresh blueberries should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within a week for the best flavor and texture. They can also be frozen for long-term storage—just spread them out on a baking sheet before freezing to prevent clumping.
Blueberries offer a burst of flavor and nutrition in every bite, making them a perfect ingredient for pies, smoothies, and more!