Name: Elderberry Pie
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (14.1-ounce) package double-crust pie pastry; 4 cups elderberries; 1 cup white sugar; 3 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 tablespoon water; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon butter

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Elderberry Pie

Elderberry Pie brings together the delightful tartness of elderberries with a wonderfully flaky crust, transforming your kitchen into a haven of warmth and comfort. This recipe is a must-try for those who appreciate the charm of homemade desserts. With its lush, deep purple filling encased in a golden-brown pastry, Elderberry Pie is as visually appealing as it is delicious. It’s an ideal treat for gatherings, celebrations, or even a cozy night at home. Plus, with this step-by-step guide, you’ll find that making your pie is an enjoyable experience that everyone can savor.

The sweet and slightly tart flavor of elderberries makes this pie exceptionally delectable, offering an elegant yet approachable dessert. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cooled to perfection, this pie is sure to enchant your taste buds and those of your loved ones. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of creating a pie from scratch, and this recipe is worth every moment you spend in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elderberry Pie is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it an excellent addition to your dessert repertoire. The ease of preparation means you can whip this up for special occasions or even just a casual weeknight treat. With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, this pie is family-friendly and encourages little ones to join in the fun of baking.

The traditional roots of this recipe give it a nostalgic appeal that will remind you of family gatherings and cherished moments. Plus, elderberries are packed with antioxidants and nutrients, adding a healthy twist to your dessert options. This pie is not only delicious, but it also provides a taste of the good old days and a burst of wholesome goodness that everyone can appreciate.

Ingredients for Elderberry Pie

To create this mouthwatering Elderberry Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients, each chosen for their quality and taste:

1 (14.1-ounce) package double-crust pie pastry: This flaky pastry serves as the perfect canvas for your luscious filling and is easy to work with.
4 cups elderberries: Fresh or frozen, these berries offer a sweet-tart flavor and deep color, making your pie visually stunning.
1 cup white sugar: This ingredient balances the tartness of the elderberries, creating a harmonious sweetness throughout the pie.
3 tablespoons cornstarch: This ensures your filling thickens beautifully, creating a delightful texture.
1 tablespoon water: Helps to blend all the filling ingredients seamlessly, enhancing the overall flavor.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: The acidity brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing zing to the pie.
1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and depth to the filling, elevating the taste.

Step-by-Step Directions for Elderberry Pie

Roll out the pastry: Begin by rolling out the thawed double-crust pastry on a lightly floured surface. Carefully line the bottom of your pie dish with one half of the crust, ensuring it fits snugly against the edges.
Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared elderberries, white sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice. Gently stir until everything is well mixed, ensuring the elderberries are evenly coated. Set this mixture aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Build your pie: Pour the luscious elderberry filling into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly. Dot the top of the filling with small pieces of butter, which will melt as the pie bakes, adding a decadent richness.
Cover with the top crust: Carefully place the second half of the pie crust over the filling. Pinch or crimp the edges to seal it tightly, preventing any juice from leaking during baking.
Vent the pie: Using a sharp knife, cut several small slits in the top crust. This allows steam to escape during baking, helping the filling to set properly and preventing a soggy crust.
Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the pie for 30-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning, using foil if necessary.
Cool and serve: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This cooling time helps the filling firm up, making it easier to serve and enjoy.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Elderberry Pie, consider these chef’s secrets and optional extras. For an added flavor twist, sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg into your filling for a warm, aromatic touch. If you have fresh herbs like mint or basil, finely chop them and mix them into the filling for a refreshing contrast.

If you’re short on time, pre-made pie crusts are a great shortcut without sacrificing flavor. You can also experiment with the crust by adding a sprinkle of sugar on top for a sweet finishing touch. Finally, always remember to use fresh, high-quality elderberries for the best taste and nutritional benefits.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Elderberry Pie shines on its own but can be enhanced with some creative presentation ideas and pairings. Serve slices with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a childhood classic dessert experience. For a modern twist, drizzle some berry coulis or a chocolate sauce on the plate before placing a slice of pie atop it.

Pair your pie with a cup of herbal tea or a glass of refreshing lemonade for a delightful afternoon treat. Hosting a gathering? Consider serving the pie alongside a cheese platter, emphasizing the sweet and savory combination that will delight your guests.

Nutritional Information

While indulging in a slice of Elderberry Pie, it’s worth noting some basic nutritional information. Typically, a single slice of pie contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on serving size and crust thickness. Each slice also contributes a good source of vitamins and antioxidants from the elderberries, adding to not just a delightful flavor, but also potential health benefits.

Keep in mind, while it’s a satisfying treat, moderation is key—especially when paired with creamy toppings. Enjoy this pie as an occasional indulgence, taking in the flavors and memories it brings.

Storing Tips & Variations for Elderberry Pie

To store your Elderberry Pie, keep it covered in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, slice the pie and freeze individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap or foil. This allows for easy reheating later—simply pop in the oven until warmed through.

For variations, consider altering the fruit filling based on your preference or seasonal availability. Mixing elderberries with apples or pears for a unique flavor twist can elevate your pie adventure. Additionally, for a healthier approach, you can swap out traditional sugar for natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup, adjusting the quantity as needed.

Conclusion for Elderberry Pie

Elderberry Pie is a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire that combines simplicity with mouthwatering flavor. It’s not just about making a pie; it’s about creating memories with every slice you serve. Whether shared with friends at a gathering or enjoyed alone with a comforting cup of tea, this pie promises to deliver warmth and satisfaction. Don’t wait any longer—gather your ingredients and start your Elderberry Pie adventure today!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen elderberries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen elderberries work perfectly for this pie! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mixing.

2. How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the crust is golden brown, and the filling is bubbling around the edges. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-baking.

3. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the elderberry filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

4. What can I substitute for the double-crust pie pastry?
Feel free to use a pre-made pie crust or even a crumb crust for a different texture. Alternatively, you can make a homemade crust using your favorite recipe.

5. How can I reheat leftover pie?
To reheat, simply place slices on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy!

Elderberry Pie

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Author: eliana-quinn
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Elderberry Pie is a delightful blend of tart elderberries encased in a flaky crust, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

1 (14.1-ounce) package double-crust pie pastry
4 cups elderberries
1 cup white sugar
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon butter

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Instructions

Roll out the pastry: Begin by rolling out the thawed double-crust pastry on a lightly floured surface. Carefully line the bottom of your pie dish with one half of the crust.
Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the elderberries, white sugar, cornstarch, water, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
Build your pie: Pour the elderberry filling into the prepared crust and dot with butter.
Cover with the top crust: Place the second half of the pie crust over the filling, crimping the edges to seal.
Vent the pie: Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Bake to perfection: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake for 30-40 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Cool and serve: Allow the pie to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.