This Blackberry Lemonade Pie is a refreshing treat that combines sweet blackberries with zesty lemonade. It’s creamy, fruity, and oh-so-delicious, perfect for warm days!
Making this pie is a breeze! Just blend your ingredients, pour them into a crust, and chill. I love serving it with extra berries on top for a pop of color and flavor! 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Blackberries: Fresh blackberries pack great flavor, but if they’re out of season, you can use frozen blackberries. Just remember to thaw and drain them before use. Raspberries or blueberries can also be delightful alternatives.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives a bright taste. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works, but fresh is best. You could also substitute with lime juice for a different twist.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient adds creaminess and sweetness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use evaporated milk mixed with a little sugar, but it will be less sweet.
Whipped Cream: I recommend using real whipped cream for the best texture and flavor. If you’re short on time, a whipped topping works well too. For a dairy-free version, try coconut whipped cream.
How Can I Thicken the Blackberry Mixture Properly?
Getting the blackberry mixture just right is crucial for a good pie. Here’s how to make it happen:
- Start by gently smashing the blackberries while cooking them. This helps release their juices.
- Let the mixture come to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer. This concentrates the flavors.
- Mix the cornstarch with water until smooth before adding it to the blackberry mix. This prevents lumps.
- Cook for an additional couple of minutes after adding the slurry until perfectly thickened. Don’t rush this step!
Cool it before adding it to the pie for the best marbling effect.
How to Make Blackberry Lemonade Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pie Base:
- 1 pre-made graham cracker pie crust
For The Blackberry Layer:
- 1 cup fresh blackberries (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
For The Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped cream (or whipped topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Blackberry Lemonade Pie requires about 20 minutes of preparation time and at least 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator. This means you can enjoy it after a good wait, but your taste buds will thank you for the patience!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Blackberry Mixture:
In a small saucepan, combine the blackberries, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/4 cup of water. Cook over medium heat, gently smashing the blackberries with a fork as they cook. You want them to break down and release juices. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will create a lovely berry syrup!
2. Thickening the Blackberry Sauce:
In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Add this slurry to the blackberry mixture in the saucepan and stir until everything is well combined. Continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the mixture thickens even more. Once thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool down.
3. Preparing the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until it’s nice and smooth. Gradually add in the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s fully blended and creamy. This will be the delicious base of your pie!
4. Folding in the Whipped Cream:
Now, gently fold in the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to stir too hard; you want to keep that light and fluffy texture. This will give your pie a lovely, airy quality!
5. Assembling the Pie:
Pour the smooth cream cheese mixture into the graham cracker pie crust. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly. Then, take the cooled blackberry mixture and swirl it over the cream cheese layer. You can use a knife or spatula to create a marbled effect. Look at that beautiful color!
6. Chilling the Pie:
Cover the pie and place it in the refrigerator. Chill it for at least 4 hours, or until it’s fully set. This will help all the delicious flavors meld together into one delightful treat!
7. Serving It Up:
Before serving, garnish your pie with some additional fresh blackberries on top for an extra pop of color. Slice it up, serve it to your friends and family, and enjoy every tasty bite of your Blackberry Lemonade Pie!
Can I Use Frozen Blackberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen blackberries! Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery pie. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge, or quickly in the microwave. Keep in mind that frozen blackberries may be a bit softer than fresh, so your texture might vary slightly.
How Can I Make This Pie Dairy-Free?
If you want a dairy-free version, simply replace the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut cream or a non-dairy whipped topping in place of regular whipped cream. Just check the labels to ensure they are dairy-free!
Can I Prepare This Pie in Advance?
Absolutely! This pie is great for making ahead of time. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to keep it covered to maintain freshness!
How to Store Leftover Blackberry Lemonade Pie?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you find the crust getting soggy, you can place a layer of parchment paper or wax paper between the pie and the container to help it stay crisp longer.
