Low-Fat Berry Pie
A light and flavorful berry pie featuring a crisp crust and a vibrant berry filling. Perfect for summer gatherings or a healthy dessert option, it combines fresh berries with a hint of sweetness and a thickened, luscious filling that showcases the natural fruit flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Place foil or waxed paper over the prebaked pie crust, then weight it down with dried beans or grains.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then remove foil and beans and bake for 10 more minutes until lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and cool completely.
- Place about 2 cups of berries in a food processor and add 1/3 cup sugar; puree.
- Taste and adjust sugar if needed; set aside.
- Place remaining berries in the cooled crust and gently spread into place.
- Put cornstarch into a small saucepan and whisk in the pureed berries.
- Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer, whisking frequently, until thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and pour the mixture over the berries in the crust.
- Cool to room temperature or chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a firmer filling, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon juice to enhance the flavor of the berries. If you prefer a sweeter pie, use the higher amount of sugar, or substitute with a sugar alternative if desired. Make sure to fully cool the pie crust before adding the berries to prevent a soggy bottom. This pie can also be adapted into vegan recipes by using a plant-based pie crust.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing berry pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. It pairs beautifully with Hot Mulled Punch for a festive dessert option. Consider garnishing with fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of elegance. This pie is a perfect ending to a summer meal or a picnic.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap the pie tightly in foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and serve at room temperature or warm slightly in the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Fat Berry Pie contains roughly 796 calories, with 5g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen berries, but be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the pie. You may need to adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the frozen berries. Keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly from fresh berries.
How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?
To prevent a soggy crust, ensure that you bake the crust until it is lightly browned and completely cooled before adding the filling. Using a thicker layer of cornstarch in the filling can also help absorb excess moisture from the berries.
What can I serve with the pie?
This berry pie is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It also pairs well with a side of Meatless Chili for a savory contrast if you're looking for a unique meal combination.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).