As summer whispers its warm greetings, the thought of sweet, juicy blueberries dancing in fragrant, buttery crust fills the air. These Easy Blueberry Pie Bars with Lattice Crust are the ultimate solution for anyone craving the classic flavors of blueberry pie without the fuss! They feature a soft, tender crust enveloping a luscious, berry-laden filling, making them a delightful treat for picnics, barbecues, or even just a cozy night in. One of the best perks? With this recipe, you can easily whip up these crowd-pleasers in no time, plus you can get creative with the crust by opting for a charming lattice design or playful cut-out shapes. Who could resist that? Ready to impress your friends and family with a dessert that’ll leave them craving more? Let’s dive into the details!
Why Will You Adore These Bars?
Endless Versatility: Whether you prefer the classic lattice crust or whimsical cut-out shapes, these Blueberry Pie Bars with Lattice Crust let you personalize your dessert.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you can transition from ingredients to delicious bars in no time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Juicy Goodness: The combination of fresh blueberries and a hint of lemon juice creates a flavorful burst in every bite—an unmistakable summer treat!
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves pie, and these portable bars are the perfect solution for those outdoor meals or cozy nights. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and watch them disappear!
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the filling or dough in advance to save time, allowing you to focus on enjoying your event. Can you imagine serving these along with a refreshing drink like Blueberry Infused Water?
Blueberry Pie Bars Ingredients
For the Crust
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; frozen is preferred for a flakier texture.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the pie crust; measure precisely for the best result.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the crust; brown sugar adds a hint of caramel flavor.
• Fine Sea Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• Vanilla Paste – Adds depth; can be substituted with vanilla extract if needed.
• Ice Water – Binds the crust ingredients together without making the dough sticky.
For the Blueberry Filling
• Frozen Blueberries – The main filling ingredient, providing juiciness; fresh blueberries can be used but may require longer cooking time.
• Brown Sugar – Sweetens the filling; can be substituted with additional granulated sugar if preferred.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavor of the blueberries; fresh lemon juice is optimal.
• Cornstarch – Thickens the filling for the right consistency; substitute with flour if necessary.
• Water – Activates the cornstarch for thickening.
For Assembly
• Egg – Used for egg wash, giving the crust a lovely golden finish.
• Turbinado Sugar – Sprinkling on the lattice crust adds a delightful crunch.
With all these delightful ingredients, you’re just a whisk and a mix away from creating scrumptious Blueberry Pie Bars with Lattice Crust!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Blueberry Pie Bars with Lattice Crust
Step 1: Prep Dough
Start by grating 1 cup of frozen unsalted butter into a large mixing bowl filled with 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and a pinch of fine sea salt. Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend the mixture until it resembles pebble-sized crumbs, ensuring a flaky texture for your Blueberry Pie Bars with Lattice Crust.
Step 2: Add Liquid
Gradually mix in 4 to 6 tablespoons of ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just starts to clump together without being sticky. You want the mixture to hold together when squeezed in your hand. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as it needs to remain tender for your delicious pie bars.
Step 3: Chill Dough
Divide the dough into two equal portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps maintain its shape during baking and develops its buttery flavor—this step is crucial for achieving the ideal crust for your Blueberry Pie Bars with Lattice Crust.
Step 4: Make Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine 4 cups of frozen blueberries, ½ cup of brown sugar, and the juice of 1 lemon over medium heat. Cook the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring gently until the blueberries start to release their juices. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then add it to the blueberry mixture, cooking until thickened—about 2 more minutes will do.
Step 5: Blind Bake Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one portion of chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer it to the dish and trim the edges, then prick the bottom with a fork. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until it’s lightly golden, which helps ensure a crispy base for your Blueberry Pie Bars with Lattice Crust.
Step 6: Prepare Lattice Top
While the bottom crust cools, roll out the second portion of the dough. Cut it into strips, about 1 inch wide, using a sharp knife or a pastry cutter. Begin weaving the strips into a lattice pattern over a sheet of parchment paper, ensuring even spacing. Freeze the lattice for about 10 minutes to set before topping your bars.
Step 7: Assemble
Once the bottom crust is baked and slightly cooled, spread the blueberry filling evenly over the crust. Carefully lift the lattice from the parchment and place it over the filling. Trim excess dough, fold the edges in, and crimp for a decorative finish. Brush the lattice with a beaten egg and sprinkle turbinado sugar on top for a beautiful golden crust.
Step 8: Bake Again
Return the assembled Blueberry Pie Bars to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the lattice is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. The enticing aroma will fill your kitchen! Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing—this step is essential to achieve clean, delicious squares.
Expert Tips for Blueberry Pie Bars
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Precise Measurements: Measure your flour using the spoon-level method to prevent excess flour, which can lead to a tough crust for your blueberry pie bars.
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Chill for Success: Don’t skip chilling the dough! This vital step keeps it from becoming too soft during baking, ensuring a flaky lattice crust.
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Use Frozen Blueberries: Frozen blueberries are perfect for the filling, helping to keep the mixture juicy without becoming watery. Fresh blueberries may alter the texture slightly.
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Cooling Time: Let the bars cool completely before slicing. This ensures clean cuts and maintains the integrity of your beautiful lattice topping.
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Get Creative: If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out blueberries for cherries or add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the filling for a unique twist on your blueberry pie bars!
Blueberry Pie Bars with Lattice Crust Variations
Feel the freedom to get creative with your baking! These variations will let you make the recipe uniquely yours.
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Cherry Twist: Substitute blueberries with fresh or frozen cherries for a delightful cherry pie flavor.
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Cinnamon Delight: Stir in a teaspoon of cinnamon to the blueberry filling for a warm, cozy undertone.
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Vegan Option: Replace the butter with coconut oil and omit the egg wash for a plant-based friendly treat.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.
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Nutty Addition: Add finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the crust for a delightful crunch in every bite.
For a refreshing pairing, serve these bars with a cool drink like Blueberry Infused Water to enhance the berry flavors.
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Lemon Zing: Increase the lemon juice in the filling for an extra zesty pop that balances the sweetness beautifully.
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Fruit Medley: Mix blueberries with raspberries or strawberries for a vibrant and colorful filling that’s bursting with flavor.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the bars for an indulgent twist that’s sure to impress.
How to Store and Freeze Blueberry Pie Bars
Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness without refrigeration.
Fridge: For longer shelf life, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to one week. This will help keep the filling moist and flavors intact.
Freezer: Freeze the bars for up to one month. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for best results, retaining their delightful taste!
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, restoring that lovely crispy crust of your Blueberry Pie Bars with Lattice Crust.
What to Serve with Easy Blueberry Pie Bars with Lattice Crust
Imagine filling your table with delightful sides that enhance the joy of savoring these luscious blueberry pie bars, creating an unforgettable meal.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing melts beautifully over warm bars, offering a rich contrast to the tart blueberries. The lusciousness adds a velvety finish that makes each bite heavenly.
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Lemonade Sparkler: A refreshing, zesty drink balances the sweetness of the bars perfectly. The citrus notes brighten up each mouthful, making it an ideal summer sip.
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Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop on top of the bars not only adds a touch of elegance but enhances the dessert’s creaminess. It’s a simple yet delicious way to elevate your treat.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits provides a burst of freshness and complements the blueberry filling beautifully. The colorful assortment adds visual appeal and a refreshing bite alongside the sweet bars.
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Mint Iced Tea: Cool, refreshing mint tea can soothe the palate after indulging in the sweetness of the pie bars. The herbal notes pair well, creating a balance that’s utterly enjoyable.
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Sliced Almond Biscotti: For a delightful textural contrast, serve crunchy almond biscotti on the side. The nutty flavor enhances the berry notes while providing a satisfying bite.
These pairings create a harmonious dining experience, bringing out the delicious flavors of your Easy Blueberry Pie Bars with Lattice Crust.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Blueberry Pie Bars with Lattice Crust are perfect for meal prep and can save you valuable time during busy weeknights or special gatherings! You can prepare the pie dough up to 5 days in advance—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep it fresh. The blueberry filling can also be made ahead and stored for up to 1 week in the fridge; be sure to cool it completely before transfer to an airtight container to retain its flavor and texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the bars by spreading the filling over the chilled crust, adding the lattice top, and following the baking instructions for a perfect finish. Enjoy delightful, homemade dessert magic with minimal last-minute effort!
Blueberry Pie Bars with Lattice Crust Recipe FAQs
What type of blueberries should I use?
Absolutely! Frozen blueberries are excellent for this recipe as they provide a juicy filling without becoming too watery. However, if you prefer fresh blueberries, go ahead! Just keep in mind they may require a longer cooking time to release their juices evenly.
How should I store leftover blueberry pie bars?
You can store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to one week. This helps maintain the moistness of the filling and the delicious flavors!
Can I freeze blueberry pie bars?
Yes, you can freeze these delightful bars for up to one month! Individually wrap each bar in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to lock in that scrumptious flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
What if my crust is too soft to hold a shape?
Very! If your crust feels too soft while working with it, there’s no need to worry. Just chill it for another 15-20 minutes until it firms up. This helps maintain structure during baking and will give you that perfect flaky finish.
Can I make these pie bars ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the dough and blueberry filling separately a few days in advance. The dough can be refrigerated for up to 5 days, while the filling can be made up to a week in advance. Just layer everything together and bake when you’re ready to serve!
Are these blueberry pie bars suitable for pets or allergies?
While these pie bars are perfect for human enjoyment, it’s important to keep them away from pets, particularly because of ingredients like sugar and butter that can upset their stomachs. Additionally, if you’re baking for someone with gluten or dairy allergies, consider using gluten-free flour and a dairy-free substitute for the butter.
Delicious Blueberry Pie Bars with Lattice Crust to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by grating frozen unsalted butter into a mixing bowl filled with all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and fine sea salt. Blend until it resembles pebble-sized crumbs.
- Gradually mix in ice water until the dough just starts to clump together. Be careful not to overwork it.
- Divide the dough into two portions, wrap each in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Combine frozen blueberries, brown sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until juices are released.
- Mix cornstarch with water, add to the blueberry mixture, and cook until thickened.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Roll out one portion of chilled dough, place in greased baking dish, prick with a fork, and bake until golden.
- Roll out the second dough portion and cut into strips. Weave into a lattice pattern and freeze for 10 minutes.
- Spread blueberry filling over the baked crust, place the lattice on top, trim excess dough, crimp edges, brush with egg, and sprinkle with sugar.
- Return to oven and bake until the lattice is golden brown and filling is bubbling. Allow to cool completely before slicing.