Classic Blackberry Pie with Buttery Shortcrust Pastry

This Blackberry Pie with Buttery Shortcrust Pastry is a timeless dessert that celebrates the sweet-tart flavor of fresh blackberries wrapped in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth crust. With a juicy berry filling and a hint of lemon zest, it’s the perfect treat for summer gatherings, holiday dinners, or cozy weekend baking. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.

What Is Blackberry Pie?

Blackberry pie is a classic fruit pie made by baking fresh or macerated blackberries inside a pastry crust. This version uses a rich, buttery shortcrust pastry for a tender yet sturdy base and top layer, with a filling lightly sweetened and enhanced with lemon zest for brightness.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Fresh, juicy blackberry filling with natural sweetness.
• Crisp and buttery homemade shortcrust pastry that’s easy to make.
• Simple ingredients, no artificial flavors.
• Perfect for summer picnics, holidays, and family desserts.
• Can be made ahead and served warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Tips

1. Macerate the blackberries with sugar and lemon zest for at least 4 hours—this draws out the juices and intensifies flavor.
2. Use cold butter for the pastry to keep it flaky.
3. Don’t skip the chill time for the dough—it prevents shrinkage in the oven.
4. If the top crust browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil during baking.
5. Let the pie cool slightly before slicing to allow the filling to set.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Blackberries?

Yes, but thaw and drain them well before using to prevent a watery filling.

Can I Make This Pie Without a Top Crust?

Absolutely—leave it open-faced for a tart-style pie or add a lattice crust.

What’s the Best Way to Serve Blackberry Pie?

Warm with vanilla ice cream or at room temperature with whipped cream.

Can I Swap the Fruit?

Yes! Blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of summer berries all work beautifully.

How Do I Prevent a Soggy Bottom Crust?

Brush the base with a beaten egg before adding the filling, or sprinkle with a thin layer of ground almonds or breadcrumbs.

How to Freeze

Wrap the baked and cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.

How to Store

Store blackberry pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in a low oven before serving.

How to Make Blackberry Pie

Step 1

Step 1

Prepare the Filling:
In a bowl, combine blackberries, light brown sugar, and lemon zest. Mix well, cover with cling film, and let sit for 4 hours.

Prepare the Filling:
In a bowl, combine blackberries, light brown sugar, and lemon zest. Mix well, cover with cling film, and let sit for 4 hours.

Step 2

Step 2

Make the Pastry Dough:
In a food processor, blend flour, butter, and salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Transfer to a bowl, add powdered sugar, lemon zest, and egg yolks. Mix until a dough forms, then knead gently. Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Make the Pastry Dough:
In a food processor, blend flour, butter, and salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Transfer to a bowl, add powdered sugar, lemon zest, and egg yolks. Mix until a dough forms, then knead gently. Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 3

Step 3

Roll the Pastry:
Set aside ⅔ of the dough and roll it out. Line a greased pie dish with the dough, trimming excess from the edges.

Roll the Pastry:
Set aside ⅔ of the dough and roll it out. Line a greased pie dish with the dough, trimming excess from the edges.

Step 4

Step 4

Assemble the Pie:
Pour the blackberry filling into the crust. Roll out the remaining dough and cover the pie, sealing the edges well.

Assemble the Pie:
Pour the blackberry filling into the crust. Roll out the remaining dough and cover the pie, sealing the edges well.

Step 5

Step 5

Bake:
Bake in a preheated oven at 360°F (180°C) for 30 minutes, or until golden.

Bake:
Bake in a preheated oven at 360°F (180°C) for 30 minutes, or until golden.

Step 6

Step 6

Cool and Serve:
Transfer to a serving plate, dust with powdered sugar, slice, and enjoy.

Cool and Serve:
Transfer to a serving plate, dust with powdered sugar, slice, and enjoy.

Step 7

Step 7