Mary Berry Blackberry And Apple Pie Recipe

A timeless British dessert, the Mary Berry Blackberry and Apple Pie combines the sweet and tart flavors of fresh blackberries and apples with a buttery, flaky pastry. This pie is perfect for family gatherings or a special occasion, served warm with cream, ice cream, or custard. With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow method, you’ll have a homemade pie that looks impressive and tastes even better.

What Is Mary Berry’s Blackberry and Apple Pie?

Mary Berry Blackberry and Apple Pie is a classic double-crust pie filled with juicy blackberries and tart apples, encased in a buttery shortcrust pastry. The fruit filling is perfectly sweetened and flavored with a touch of sugar and spices, while the golden pastry adds a delicious crispness.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Perfect Flavor Balance: Combines the tartness of apples with the sweetness of blackberries.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples for the pastry and filling.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm with ice cream, cream, or custard.
• Easy to Make: Straightforward steps for both the pastry and the filling.
• Classic British Dessert: A comforting and nostalgic treat for all ages.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Blackberry and Apple Pie

To make one 9-inch pie, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pastry:

• 225g (1 ¾ cups) plain flour: The base for the buttery shortcrust pastry.
• 150g (⅔ cup) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed: Adds richness to the pastry.
• 2-3 tbsp cold water: To bring the dough together.
• 1 tbsp caster sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.

For the Filling:

• 3 large cooking apples (like Bramley), peeled, cored, and sliced: Provides tartness and texture.
• 200g (1 ½ cups) fresh blackberries: Adds a sweet-tart flavor to the filling.
• 100g (½ cup) caster sugar: Sweetens the fruit filling.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice.
• 1 tbsp plain flour: Helps to thicken the filling.
• Juice of half a lemon: Balances the sweetness of the filling.

For the Glaze:

• 1 beaten egg: To give the crust a golden finish.
• 1 tbsp demerara sugar (optional): Adds extra sweetness and crunch to the crust.

Equipment

Here’s what you’ll need to make Mary Berry Blackberry and Apple Pie:

• Mixing bowls: These are used to prepare the pastry and fruit filling.
• Rolling pin: To roll out the pastry.
• 9-inch pie dish: To assemble the pie.
• Pastry brush: For glazing the pie crust.
• Baking tray: To catch any drips during baking.

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Blackberry and Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry

• In a large mixing bowl, sift the plain flour and add the chilled, cubed butter.
• Rub the butter into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
• Stir in the caster sugar and add 2-3 tbsp cold water. Mix with a fork or your hands until the dough comes together.
• Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in cling film, and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

• In a large bowl, combine the apple slices, blackberries, caster sugar, cinnamon, plain flour, and lemon juice.
• Mix gently to coat the fruit evenly. The flour will help thicken the filling as it bakes.

Step 3: Roll Out the Pastry

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
• On a lightly floured surface, roll out half of the chilled pastry to line the base of a 9-inch pie dish. Leave some overhang around the edges.
• Spoon the apple and blackberry filling evenly into the pastry-lined dish.

Step 4: Add the Top Crust

• Roll out the remaining pastry to cover the top of the pie. Carefully place it over the filling.
• Trim the edges and press the top and bottom crusts together to seal. You can crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork for a decorative touch.
• Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 5: Glaze the Pie

• Brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg using a pastry brush for a golden finish.
• Sprinkle the top with demerara sugar (optional) for extra crunch and sweetness.

Step 6: Bake the Pie

• Place the pie on a baking tray to catch any filling that might bubble over.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the slits.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

• Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.
• Serve warm with cream, ice cream, or custard for a delightful dessert.

What Goes Well with Mary Berry Blackberry and Apple Pie?

Here are a few perfect pairings for this delicious pie:

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold contrast pairs wonderfully with the warm pie.
• Custard: A classic British accompaniment that adds richness.
• Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream complements the sweet-tart flavors.
• Double Cream: For a luxurious and rich pairing with a warm pie.
• Clotted Cream: Adds a rich, buttery texture that complements the flaky crust.
• Honey Drizzle: A touch of honey adds extra sweetness and shine.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Blackberry and Apple Pie

Follow these tips for a perfect Mary Berry Blackberry and Apple Pie every time:

• Use Cold Butter: Cold butter is essential for a flaky pastry. Handle it minimally to keep it from melting.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the pastry helps it hold its shape and prevents shrinking in the oven.
• Pre-Cook the Apples: If you prefer softer apples, you can sauté the apples briefly in a pan before assembling the pie.
• Prevent Soggy Bottoms: Dust the bottom of the pie crust with a little flour or breadcrumbs before adding the filling to prevent the crust from getting soggy.
• Let It Cool: Allow the pie to cool slightly before cutting into it so the filling can set.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Blackberry and Apple Pie

Try these fun variations to customize your pie:

• Mixed Berry Pie: Replace half the blackberries with raspberries or blueberries for a berry-filled twist.
• Spiced Pie: Add ground cloves or nutmeg along with the cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Crumble Topping: Swap the top pastry for a crumble topping made with flour, butter, and sugar for added texture.
• Almond Crust: Add ground almonds to the pastry for a nutty twist.
• Honey-Sweetened Pie: Replace the sugar in the filling with honey for a natural sweetness.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Blackberry and Apple Pie

To keep your pie fresh, follow these storage tips:

• Room Temperature: Store the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: The pie can be frozen after baking. Cool it completely, wrap it tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Blackberry and Apple Pie

To enjoy your pie warm, here’s how to reheat it:

• Oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute on medium heat.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Blackberry and Apple Pie Healthier?

For a healthier twist on this pie, try these substitutions:

• Use Whole Wheat Flour: Replace some or all of the plain flour with whole wheat for added fiber.
• Reduce Sugar: Lower the amount of sugar in the filling or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey.
• Use Low-Fat Butter: Substitute regular butter with a low-fat option or use coconut oil.
• Add Seeds: Incorporate flaxseeds or chia seeds into the crust for added nutrition.
• Use Less Pastry: Opt for a single-crust pie to reduce the amount of butter and flour.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 4g
• Sugar: 25g

FAQs

Can I use frozen blackberries for Mary Berry Blackberry and Apple Pie?

Yes, frozen blackberries can be used in this pie. There’s no need to thaw them before adding to the filling. However, you may need to add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to the filling to absorb any extra liquid from the frozen berries, preventing a watery pie.

How do I prevent a soggy bottom on my pie?

To avoid a soggy bottom, dust the bottom crust with a little flour or breadcrumbs before adding the fruit filling. You can also blind bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling, which helps it firm up and avoid soaking up too much liquid.

Should I peel the apples for blackberry and apple pie?

It’s generally recommended to peel the apples for this pie. Peeled apples ensure a smoother texture and help the filling cook evenly. However, if you prefer a slightly rustic texture, you can leave the peels on.

How long does Mary Berry Blackberry and Apple Pie last?

The pie will last up to 2 days at room temperature when covered or stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate the pie for up to 5 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Final Words

The Mary Berry Blackberry and Apple Pie Recipe is a delightful blend of tart apples, sweet blackberries, and a buttery, flaky pastry.

This classic British dessert is perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed with your favorite accompaniment, from custard to ice cream. With its simple preparation and comforting flavors, this pie is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and savor each delicious bite!

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