Recipe – Blackberry Pie Bars

There’s something undeniably comforting about homemade desserts, especially when they involve the rich, tangy flavor of blackberries nestled in a crumbly, buttery crust. Blackberry pie bars are a delightful twist on the traditional pie, offering the same delicious taste in a more convenient, hand-held form. This article explores the wonders of making Blackberry Pie Bars, from the joy of preparing them to the burst of flavors you experience with every bite.

A Symphony of Flavors and Textures

Blackberry pie bars combine the tartness of fresh blackberries with the sweetness of sugar and the richness of a shortbread crust. The filling, thickened with a bit of flour or cornstarch, is encased in a crust that’s both tender and crumbly, providing a satisfying contrast in textures. A streusel topping, often mixed with oats or nuts, adds an extra layer of crunch and flavor, making each bite a perfect symphony of tastes and textures.

The Joy of Baking

The process of making blackberry pie bars is as delightful as eating them. Starting with the crust, the simple act of blending butter into flour and sugar until it reaches just the right consistency can be incredibly therapeutic. Pressing the crust into a pan transforms it into a canvas awaiting its colorful filling. As for the blackberry filling, there’s a unique joy in mixing the berries with sugar and watching them release their juices, turning into a vibrant concoction ready to be poured over the crust.

Baking these bars fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma, a precursor to the deliciousness that awaits. The bars come out of the oven with a golden-brown top, bubbling filling, and a scent that’s impossible to resist.

A Versatile Treat for Any Occasion

Blackberry pie bars are versatile, perfect for an array of occasions. They’re a hit at summer picnics, where their easy-to-eat format makes them a practical and delicious choice. They’re equally at home in a holiday dessert spread, offering a fruity contrast to the heavier chocolate and pumpkin treats typically found during the season. These bars can also be a comforting snack on a quiet afternoon or a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

Nutritional Benefits

While blackberry pie bars are a dessert, they come with the nutritional benefits of blackberries, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Blackberries contribute fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K, making these bars a slightly healthier option compared to other sweet treats.

Conclusion

Making blackberry pie bars is a wonderful experience that goes beyond just baking. It’s about creating something beautiful and delicious, enjoying the process, and sharing the joy with others. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, the simplicity and deliciousness of blackberry pie bars make them a must-try. The end result is not just a treat for the taste buds but a celebration of homemade baking at its best.

Here’s a quick and easy way to put a nice treat on the dinner table or just have a nice snack.

blackberry pie bar

Blackberry Pie Bars Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour (385g/13.5 OZ)
• 1 1/2 cups sugar, divided (300g/ 10.6OZ)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Zest and juice of one lemon, divided
• 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch slices (230g/8 OZ)
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 cups fresh blackberries (440g/16 OZ)
• 4 teaspoons cornstarch

Blackberry Pie Bars Cooking Directions

• Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
• Grease a 9×13-inch pan.
• In a food processor, pulse together flour, 1 cup of sugar, baking powder, cinnamon salt and lemon zest.
• Add the butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Pulsing until dough is crumbly. Pat half of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan, saving the remaining dough for the topping.
• In a medium bowl, stir together the remaining 1/2 cup sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Gently mix in the blackberries. Sprinkle the blackberry mixture evenly over the crust. Crumble the remaining dough over the berry layer.
• Bake in a preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until the top is slightly brown (you are only looking for the top to be slightly brown; if you cook for too long – the bottom will burn).
• Cool completely before cutting into squares. Store in an airtight container.

Yield

•  12 Blackberry Pie Bars