Imagine sinking your fork into a heavenly dessert that bursts with the vibrant flavors of multiple berries, nestled in a buttery, crumbly crust that melts in your mouth. This Bumbleberry Pie Tray Bake is not just a dessert - it's a celebration of summer's most delicious fruits, transformed into an irresistible treat that will have everyone begging for seconds. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or looking for the perfect sweet indulgence, this recipe promises to be your new go-to crowd-pleaser that combines the rustic charm of a homemade pie with the convenience of a tray bake.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 300g mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries)
- 200g granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 250g all-purpose flour
- 125g unsalted butter
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare the berry filling by combining mixed berries, 100g of granulated sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice in a medium bowl. Gently mix until berries are evenly coated and set aside to macerate for 15 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9x13 inch baking tray with butter or line with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Create the pie crust by combining flour, remaining 100g sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Cut cold unsalted butter into small cubes and work into the flour mixture using your fingertips or a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Press approximately two-thirds of the crumb mixture into the prepared baking tray, creating an even base layer. Compact the mixture firmly to ensure a solid crust foundation.
- Spread the macerated berry mixture evenly over the crust, ensuring complete coverage and distributing fruits uniformly.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the berry layer, creating a rustic, textured topping that will become golden and crisp during baking.
- Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the berry filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the tray for at least 1 hour, allowing the filling to set and flavors to meld.
- Once cooled, cut into 12 equal squares and serve. Optional: dust with powdered sugar or serve with vanilla ice cream.
Tips
- Berry Selection: Use a mix of fresh, ripe berries for the most complex and delicious flavor profile. If fresh berries are out of season, frozen berries work just as well - just don't thaw them before using.
- Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is cold when making the crust. This helps create those delightful, flaky crumbs that make the base so irresistible.
- Maceration Magic: Let the berries sit with sugar for 15 minutes before baking. This process helps release their natural juices and intensifies the overall flavor.
- Even Distribution: When spreading the crumb topping, use your fingers to create some texture and uneven peaks - this helps create a beautiful golden, crispy surface.
- Cooling is Crucial: Resist the temptation to cut into the tray bake immediately. Letting it cool completely helps the filling set and makes cutting into perfect squares much easier.
- Serving Suggestions: For an extra touch of indulgence, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 244kcal
Carbohydrates: 37g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
