This Blackberry Lemonade Pie is a refreshing treat perfect for warm days! It combines tangy lemonade and sweet blackberries in a smooth, creamy filling that’s simply delightful.
Let’s face it, who can resist the mix of sweet and sour flavors? I mean, that’s the perfect excuse to have another slice! 🍰 Plus, it’s super easy to make—just blend, pour, and chill!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Blackberries: Fresh blackberries provide a sweet and tangy flavor. If they’re out of season, you can use frozen blackberries—just thaw and drain excess liquid before use.
Graham Cracker Crust: This is a classic choice for a pie base. If you want a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free graham crackers or make your own crust using ground almonds or oats mixed with melted butter.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives this pie its creamy texture. If you want a lighter version, use a low-fat cream cheese or even mascarpone cheese, which adds a similar texture with a slightly different flavor.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This adds sweetness and creaminess. Substitute it with coconut cream for a dairy-free version, or mix milk with sugar until it thickens if you don’t have any handy.
How Do I Thicken the Blackberry Mixture Properly?
Getting the blackberry topping just right is key to this pie. Cook the mixture gently to allow the blackberries to break down and thicken. Here’s what to focus on:
- Combine blackberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir occasionally for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens. Look for a jam-like consistency.
- Let it cool before adding it to the cream cheese layer to prevent it from melting.
Patience is essential! If it’s too runny, you could add a bit more cornstarch mixed with water and cook briefly until it thickens further.
How to Make Blackberry Lemonade Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pie:
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust
- 1 cup fresh blackberries (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup whipped topping
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Blackberry Lemonade Pie will take about 15 minutes of preparation time and at least 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for a warm day and makes a refreshing dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Blackberry Sauce:
Start by making the blackberry sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh blackberries, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and the water. Cook this mixture over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the blackberries soften and the mixture gets a bit thicker. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it cool.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
While the blackberry mixture is cooling, grab a separate bowl. Beat together the softened cream cheese, the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract with a mixer until it becomes smooth and creamy. This will be the tasty filling!
3. Combine Everything Together:
Now it’s time to add the sweetened condensed milk to the cream cheese mixture. Mix it in gradually until everything is well combined. Then, gently fold in the whipped topping until it’s all mixed nicely.
4. Assemble Your Pie:
Pour the cream cheese mixture into the pre-made graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top so it looks nice and even. After that, take your cooled blackberry mixture and spoon it over the top of the cream cheese layer. If you like, use a knife to swirl it around a bit for a marbled look.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the pie and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to let it set. When you’re ready to serve, garnish the top with fresh blackberries and a sprinkle of lemon zest if you wish. Now it’s time to enjoy your refreshing Blackberry Lemonade Pie!
Can I Use Frozen Blackberries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen blackberries, simply thaw them and drain off excess liquid before cooking. This will help maintain the right consistency in your pie.
What If I Don’t Have Sweetened Condensed Milk?
No worries! You can substitute it with a mix of equal parts milk and sugar, or use evaporated milk with added sugar to taste. Just remember to adjust the sweetness in the rest of the recipe accordingly!
How Long Can I Store the Pie?
You can store Blackberry Lemonade Pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to enjoy it within the first 48 hours for optimal freshness and flavor!
Can I Make This Pie Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free graham cracker crust, or you can make a crust using ground nuts or gluten-free cookies mixed with butter for a tasty alternative!
