Classic Apple Pie with a Blueberry Jam Twist

Step 1: Preparing the Pie Crust

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Cut in the Butter: Add the chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.
3. Add Ice Water: Sprinkle 6 tablespoons of ice water over the mixture. Toss with a fork until the dough begins to come together. Add more water, one tablespoon at a time, if needed.
4. Form the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts, shape each into a disk, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Making the Blueberry Jam

1. Cook the Blueberries: In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the blueberries release their juice and the mixture starts to bubble.
2. Thicken the Jam: If you prefer a thicker jam, dissolve the cornstarch in a little water and add it to the blueberry mixture. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until thickened.
3. Cool: Remove from heat and let the jam cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Preparing the Apple Filling

1. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. In a large bowl, toss the apples with lemon juice.
2. Add the Sugars and Spices: In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and flour or cornstarch. Toss this mixture with the apples until evenly coated.

Step 4: Assembling and Baking the Pie

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll Out the Crust: On a floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to fit your pie dish. Transfer it to the dish, pressing it into the bottom and sides.
3. Add the Blueberry Jam: Spread a layer of blueberry jam over the bottom of the pie crust.
4. Add the Apple Filling: Pile the apple filling on top of the jam. Dot the top of the apples with small pieces of butter.
5. Top Crust: Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the apple filling. Trim any excess dough, crimp the edges to seal, and cut a few slits in the top crust for ventilation.
6. Apply Egg Wash: Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.
8. Cool: Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing to let the filling set.

5. Tips for a Perfect Pie

• Chill the Dough: Ensure the dough is well-chilled before rolling out. This helps prevent shrinking and makes it easier to handle.
• Use a Pie Shield: If you don’t have a pie shield, you can use aluminum foil to protect the crust edges from over-browning.
• Let It Cool: Cooling the pie properly helps the filling set and makes it easier to slice.

6. Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Pair with a strong coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a complete dessert experience.
• Top with extra blueberry jam for a burst of flavor.

7. FAQs and Storage Tips

• Can I use store-bought pie crust? Yes, you can use pre-made pie crusts if you prefer a quicker option.
• Can I freeze this pie? Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed.
• How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven to crisp up the crust.

8. Conclusion: A Classic with a Fresh Twist

This Classic Apple Pie with a Blueberry Jam Twist is a delightful fusion of traditional apple pie flavors and the sweet, tangy notes of blueberry jam. It’s a show-stopping dessert that combines the best of both worlds, making it a perfect addition to any occasion. Enjoy every delicious bite of this timeless treat with a modern twist!

Happy baking, and may your pie be as delightful as it is delicious!