Name: Delicious Berry Slab Pie: A Summer Showstopper Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 190 min
Ingredients: 1 batch All-Butter Pie Crust (A classic choice for a flaky texture.); 1 egg Egg Wash (A mixture of egg and water for a golden sheen.); 2 cups Fresh Strawberries (Sweet and juicy.); 2 cups Fresh Blackberries (Provides a lovely contrast in texture.); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (Adds brightness to the filling.); 1/2 cup Sugar (Adjust based on fruit sweetness.); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Optional, to thicken the filling.)

The sun-drenched days of summer call for desserts that are as vibrant as the season itself, and there’s nothing quite like a beautiful mixed berry slab pie to capture that spirit. This pie features a delicately flaky, all-butter crust that hugs a juicy filling of strawberries and blackberries, all brought to life with a hint of lemon. Unlike traditional round pies, this easy-to-make, free-form version is ideal for summer gatherings, ensuring you can serve a slice of happiness to friends and family without any fuss. It’s a nostalgic dessert that reminds me of oversized pastries from childhood but with a fresh, homemade twist. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use fresh ingredients in your kitchen. Ready to impress your guests with a dessert that’s not just pretty but also incredibly delicious? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why is This Pie a Summer Favorite?

Easy Preparation: This mixed berry slab pie is a breeze to make, perfect for those busy summer days when you want dessert without the hassle.

Bursting with Freshness: The use of ripe strawberries and blackberries brings a natural sweetness and vibrant color, making each slice a treat for the eyes as much as the taste buds.

Versatile Variations: Swap in raspberries or blueberries for a twist, or try a luscious peach slab pie – endless possibilities await!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for picnics or gatherings, this pie can easily serve a crowd, ensuring that everyone leaves satisfied.

Perfect with Ice Cream: Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a heavenly combination, just like with my Mini Blackberry Mousse for that truly decadent experience!

You’ll find that this pie not only tastes fantastic but celebrates the warmth and joy of summer in every bite!

Berry Slab Pie Ingredients

• For the Crust

All-Butter Pie Crust – A classic choice for a flaky texture; combining shortening and butter works well too!
Egg Wash – A mixture of egg and water adds a beautiful golden sheen to your crust.

• For the Filling

Fresh Strawberries – Sweet and juicy; feel free to swap for other berries like blueberries if desired.
Fresh Blackberries – Provides a lovely contrast in texture; they blend beautifully with strawberries.
Lemon Juice – Adds brightness to the filling, enhancing the natural flavors of the berries.
Sugar – Sweetens the fruit mixture; adjust based on how sweet your berries are.
Cornstarch – Thicken the filling to avoid a soggy bottom; it’s optional depending on your fruit’s juiciness.

With these simple ingredients, your Berry Slab Pie will come together beautifully, bringing the taste of summer right to your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Berry Slab Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Begin by mixing the ingredients for your all-butter pie crust until they’re well combined. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling time is crucial as it helps the butter firm up, creating a flaky texture once baked.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
While the crust chills, wash and chop your fresh strawberries and blackberries. Combine them in a bowl with lemon juice, sugar, and optional cornstarch. Let this mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes to draw out the juices, which will enhance the flavor of your berry slab pie.

Step 3: Roll Out Dough
Once your pie dough is chilled, take it out of the fridge and place it on a floured surface or parchment paper. Roll it out to about 1/8-inch thickness. Carefully transfer the rolled dough to a rimmed baking sheet, ensuring it fits snugly in the corners to hold your delicious filling.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Spoon your berry filling onto the crust using a slotted spoon to avoid excess liquid pooling. Spread the fruit evenly, then cover it with a top crust—either a full sheet or a decorative lattice pattern. If you’re using a solid crust, make sure to cut slits for steam to escape while baking.

Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top crust with an egg wash, sprinkling coarse sugar over it for added sweetness and a lovely finish. Bake your berry slab pie for about 50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling, signaling that it’s ready to be enjoyed.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. This cooling step helps set the filling. Serve your berry slab pie warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful treat!

Berry Slab Pie Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this delicious pie, adding your personal touch to make it uniquely yours!

Berry Swap: Substitute strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile. Each berry brings its unique sweetness and texture to the mix.
Peach Bliss: For a summer twist, try making a peach slab pie using fresh peach slices instead of berries. The juicy peaches create a sweet and fragrant filling that’s simply irresistible.
Citrus Burst: Incorporate a splash of orange juice with the lemon for a zesty enhancement. This adds a refreshing orange undertone that balances beautifully with the berries.
Sweet Spice: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the berry filling for a warm, fragrant twist. Just a pinch can elevate the flavor and add depth while reminding you of cozy summers.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute in place of regular butter for a dairy-free option. The coconut adds a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the fresh berries.
Crust Alternatives: Swap the traditional crust for a graham cracker crust or a chocolate cookie crust for a unique flavor change. This will provide delicious contrast and would work especially well with berry flavors!
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle in some almonds or walnuts into the filling for a crunchy texture. This unexpected twist creates delightful contrast with the soft, juicy fruit.
Heat It Up: For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of jalapeños into the filling to create a spicy-sweet combination. This adventurous addition will certainly surprise your guests!

Whether you’re using the classic mixed berries or opting for one of these delightful variations, there’s no wrong way to enjoy a slice of your very own berry slab pie. Remember, the joy of cooking comes from experimenting and finding your perfect flavor balance! For more berry inspiration, check out my delightful Mini Lemon Blueberry Cheesecakes or indulge in a slice of the lush Red Velvet Strawberry Cheesecake.

What to Serve with Easy Mixed Berry Slab Pie

A summer gathering isn’t complete without the perfect pairings for a delightful dessert that dazzles the senses.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness complements the tart berries, creating a heavenly contrast with each bite. Picture lounging in the sun, ice cream melting slightly over warm pie—a moment of bliss.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it adds a soft texture that brightens the flavors of the pie, enhancing the luscious berry filling. Opt for homemade whipped cream for an extra touch of freshness!
Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprig of mint on top serves as a refreshing garnish that lifts the pie’s sweet notes, providing an aroma reminiscent of summer gardens.
Lemonade: A chilled glass of lemonade perfectly balances the sweetness of the pie and quenches your thirst on hot days—what a wonderful refreshment!
Berry Salad: Tossed with a sprinkle of sugar and a dash of lime, mixed berries create a vibrant side that echoes the pie’s flavors and textures. A harmonious connection to your dessert!
Sparkling Water: A fizzy beverage adds a playful touch while cleansing the palate, making each bite of your mixed berry slab pie a fresh experience. It’s the ideal light sip for summer gatherings.
Shortbread Cookies: Serve alongside for a delightful crunch, offering a tasty contrast to the soft fruit filling. Dipping them in the pie’s juices adds a fun element to the experience.
Peach Iced Tea: The fruity tea enhances the sweetness of the pie while offering a cooling sensation, making every bite and sip sing with summer goodness.

These thoughtful accompaniments truly enhance your Berry Slab Pie, making it a memorable centerpiece for your summer occasions!

How to Store and Freeze Berry Slab Pie

Fridge: Keep your baked berry slab pie tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its flaky crust and luscious filling.

Freezer: Allow the pie to cool completely, then wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw your frozen berry slab pie in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Reheating: For the best taste and texture, reheat your pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy the deliciousness of your berry slab pie!

Make Ahead Options

These Mixed Berry Slab Pie are fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare the all-butter pie crust up to 24 hours in advance; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The filling can also be made ahead: combine the chopped strawberries, blackberries, lemon juice, sugar, and cornstarch, then refrigerate for up to 3 days before assembling. To keep the crust crispy, bake it just before serving; simply assemble the pie with the prepared filling, brush with egg wash, and bake for about 50 minutes until golden brown. This way, you’ll serve a stunning dessert that’s just as delicious, with minimum effort on busy days!

Expert Tips for Berry Slab Pie

Chill the Dough: Always chill your pie crust for at least two hours. This ensures a flaky texture and prevents shrinkage during baking.
Fresh Berries Only: Use fresh strawberries and blackberries for the best flavor and texture. Frozen berries can release excess liquid, making your filling soggy.
Slotted Spoon Use: When adding your fruit filling, use a slotted spoon to avoid excess juice from flooding your crust, which helps maintain its crispness.
Creative Top Crust: For a fun twist, cut your top crust into shapes like stars or hearts. It adds visual appeal and allows steam to escape during baking.
Adjust Sugar Wisely: Taste your berries before adding sugar; some seasons may yield sweeter fruit, allowing you to cut back on added sugar for a fresher taste in your berry slab pie.

Berry Slab Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe berries for my mixed berry slab pie?
Absolutely! When selecting strawberries, look for bright red color and a sweet fragrance, avoiding any dark spots or mold. For blackberries, choose plump, firm berries with a deep, rich hue. Fresh berries make all the difference in flavor, so opt for the ripest ones for a delicious pie!

What’s the best way to store leftover berry slab pie?
You can store your leftover berry slab pie tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the crust flaky and the filling fresh. If you prefer, you can also freeze the pie by letting it cool completely, then wrapping it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer!

Can I freeze the berry slab pie before baking?
Yes, you can! To freeze it before baking, assemble the pie but do not bake it. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the freezer and bake it straight from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time. This keeps it convenient for future gatherings!

What should I do if my filling is too runny?
If you find your berry filling is too runny, there are a couple of things you can do! First, make sure to use a slotted spoon when adding the filling to the crust to leave excess juice behind. You can also mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch with the sugar and lemon juice before allowing the filling to sit. This will help thicken it as it bakes.

Can I adjust the sugar in the filling based on berry sweetness?
Definitely! Adjusting the sugar based on the sweetness of your berries is a great idea. Taste your berries first—if they’re particularly sweet, you can reduce the sugar by a tablespoon or so. The natural sweetness from ripe fruit usually shines through, allowing you to create a balanced pie that isn’t overly sugary.

Is this mixed berry slab pie safe for pets?
While the fresh ingredients themselves are non-toxic for pets, it’s essential to ensure that your furry friends don’t get a hold of the pie. Sugar and certain fruits can upset animal tummies, so it’s best to keep this delightful berry slab pie for human enjoyment only!