Blueberry Pie Bombs: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert
Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the combination of sweet blueberries and flaky pie crust. Blueberry pie is a timeless dessert that brings back memories of summers spent with loved ones. But what if we told you there’s a way to enjoy all the flavors of blueberry pie in a bite-sized, portable form? Enter blueberry pie bombs – a delicious twist on a classic dessert that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
Ingredients
For the filling:
- 2 cups fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the blueberries burst, releasing their juices. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Add the cold water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape each into a disc, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Blueberry Pie Bombs
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the dough.
Place a tablespoon of the cooled blueberry filling in the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
Transfer the assembled pie bombs to the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
Step 4: Bake and Glaze
Bake the blueberry pie bombs for 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled pie bombs.
Variations
While blueberry pie bombs are delicious on their own, you can always get creative and try different fillings or crust variations. Here are a few ideas:
1. Mixed Berry Explosion:
Combine blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a burst of different flavors in every bite.
2. Lemon Blueberry Bliss:
Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the blueberry filling for a refreshing twist.
3. Streusel Topping:
Sprinkle a buttery streusel topping over the pie bombs before baking for an extra layer of texture.
Tips
Here are some tips to help you achieve pie bomb perfection:
- Make sure the butter for the crust is cold. Cold butter creates a flaky texture in the dough.
- Chill the dough before rolling it out. This will prevent it from becoming too sticky and difficult to work with.
- Don’t overfill the pie bombs. Too much filling can cause them to burst open during baking.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the filling by adding more or less sugar, depending on your preference.
- Experiment with different glazes, such as a lemon glaze or a cream cheese glaze, for added variety.
Conclusion
Blueberry pie bombs are a delightful twist on a classic dessert. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, picnics, or anytime you want to satisfy your sweet tooth. The combination of juicy blueberries and flaky crust, topped with a sweet glaze, is truly irresistible. Get creative with different fillings and crust variations, and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries for the filling. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before cooking.
2. How long do the blueberry pie bombs stay fresh?
The pie bombs can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, they are best enjoyed fresh.
3. Can I freeze the blueberry pie bombs?
Yes, you can freeze the baked and cooled pie bombs. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving or reheat them in the oven.
4. Can I make the pie bombs in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the pie bombs and refrigerate them overnight before baking. This way, you can have freshly baked pie bombs in the morning without all the prep work.
5. Can I use store-bought pie crust instead?
Yes, you can use store-bought pie crust if you’re short on time. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for rolling and cutting the dough.
Now that you have all the information and steps needed to make delicious blueberry pie bombs, it’s time to get baking! Enjoy these delightful treats and share them with your loved ones – they’ll be begging for the recipe!
