Berry Bliss: 3 Marionberry Pie Recipes I Love!

Sweet and tart marionberries are the undisputed stars of any summer baking lineup. Marionberries are incredibly versatile in the kitchen. They can be used in everything from pies and jams to sauces and cocktails. Their robust flavor holds up well in baking, making them ideal for pies, cobblers, and tarts. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or simply have a soft spot for berry-filled treats, these 3 marionberry pie recipes will captivate your heart (and taste buds). From classic marionberry pie to innovative twists on the traditional dessert, get ready to discover a world of berry bliss that will have you reaching for a second slice. Furthermore, if you are a fruit pie lover just like me don’t miss out on these Tasty Apple Pie Recipes.

What Are Marionberries? Health Benefits of Marionberry

Did you come here checking for delicious dessert recipes and now find yourself wondering what Marionberries are? Marionberries have a strong cultural connection to the Pacific Northwest, particularly Oregon. They were first cultivated in Marion County, Oregon, in the 1950s, which is how they got their name. Marionberries are a type of blackberry – specifically developed through a cross between the Chehalem and Olallieberry blackberries.

They strike a perfect balance between sweetness and tartness, offering a more complex and delightful taste compared to regular blackberries. The initial burst of sweetness is followed by a slightly tangy note, with subtle earthy undertones that give marionberries a wine-like, sophisticated finish. Their juicy texture and dark purple hue make them not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visually appealing ingredient in desserts. If you are a peanut butter lover you will love these three super delicious Peanut Butter Pie Recipes – Triple Peanut Pleasure.

Health Benefits of Marionberries:

Marionberries are not just delicious – they’re also packed with nutrients. Marionberries offer a delightful combination of flavor and positive effects on health. Here are some common health benefits of Marionberry:

• Rich in vitamin C, fiber, and manganese, these berries support immune health, digestive function, and bone development.
• Have high antioxidant content, particularly anthocyanins, helps combat oxidative stress, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
• Additionally, marionberries have anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels, making them a heart-healthy and diabetes-friendly choice.

Marionberry and Lavender Crumble Pie Recipe

I love fruit pies and constantly experiment with different fruits in my kitchen. This pie recipe is a variation of classic Blueberry and Lavender Crumble Pie with the tarty twist of marionberries. It combines the rich, complex flavors of marionberries with the delicate floral notes of lavender. It’s an elegant variation on a classic crumble pie that will leave you and your guests impressed.

Serving Size: 8 servings / Prep Time: 20 minutes / Cook Time: 50-60 minutes

Chilling Time: 1 hour / Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (180g)
• ½ teaspoon salt (2.5g)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (12g)
• ½ cup butter, chilled and cut into cubes (113g)
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

• 5 cups frozen or fresh marionberries (about 750g)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (150g)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (16g)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15ml)
• 1 teaspoon dried culinary lavender (5g)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (5g)

For the Crumble Topping:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
• ½ cup rolled oats (45g)
• ½ cup brown sugar (100g)
• ½ cup chilled butter cut into cubes (113g)
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Step #1: Prepare Pie Crust:

• Prepare flour mixture by mixing flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold butter cubes and blend with a pastry cutter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Slowly incorporate ice water into the flour mixture, a tablespoon at a time, stirring just until the dough starts to hold together. Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step #2: Prepare the Pie Filling:

• In a large bowl, toss together the marionberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lavender, and lemon zest until the berries are evenly coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes. This recipe tastes equally good with mixed frozen berries so if you have some frozen berries in the freezer – give it a try.

Step #3: Prepare the Crumble Topping:

• Mix the flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt in a medium bowl. Add the chilled butter and blend until the topping forms clumps. It is best to make the pie crust and crumble topping ahead of time. You can keep the crumble topping and pie crust in the refrigerator overnight, and then assemble and bake pie the next morning.

Step #4: Assemble the Pie:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and place it in a 9-inch pie dish or prepared pie shell. Trim any remaining dough. Add the marionberry filling to the crust, then sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the filling.

Step #5: Bake the Pie:

• Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 50-55 minutes, until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbling. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
• Let the pie cool for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the filling to set. Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.

Vegan Marionberry Pie Recipe

This vegan marionberry pie recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, offering all the rich, berry goodness of a traditional pie, with plant-based ingredients. My vegan marionberry pie is a delightful twist on the classic, featuring a flaky, buttery-tasting crust and a juicy, flavorful filling – all without any animal products. Perfect for those who follow a plant-based diet or anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and guilt-free dessert!

Serving Size: 8-9 / Prep Time: 30 minutes / Cook Time: 50-60 minutes

Chilling Time: 2 hours / Total Time: 3 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 2 ½ cups (300g) of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for a slightly sweet crust)
• 1 cup (225g) vegan butter or margarine, chilled and cut into cubes
• 6-8 tablespoons ice-cold water

For the Filling:

• 6 cups (about 900g) of fresh or frozen marionberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
• ¼ cup cornstarch (30g)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15ml)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (5g)
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

For the Topping:

• 1 tablespoon plant-based milk
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

Step #1: Prepare Pie Crust:

• Add the chilled vegan butter cubes to the flour mixture after whisking together the flour, kosher salt, and sugar (if using). Cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter. You can do it with your finger or with a pastry cutter.
• As the dough begins to come together, gradually add ice water, mixing with a fork. Go slow as mixing too much can result in overheating. Make two disks from the dough, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step #2: Prepare the Filling:

• Then take a large bowl and mix the marionberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, and cinnamon (if using). Gently toss until the berries are evenly coated.

Step #3: Assemble the Pie:

• Set the oven to preheat to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured board, form a 9-inch pie crust by rolling out one of the dough disks. Carefully transfer the dough to the pie plate or dish, leaving the dough edges hanging over little on the sides.
• Then, pour the marionberry filling into the prepared crust. Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the filling. Trim any excess dough, leaving a 1-inch overhang. Tuck the edges under and crimp them together to seal.
• Make a few slits in the top crust to let steam escape and lightly brush the top with plant-based milk and sprinkle with coarse sugar.

Step #4: Bake the Pie:

• Bake the marionberry pie in the oven for 50-60 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling starts bubbling. Place a baking sheet underneath to catch any spills. If the edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.

Step #5: Cool and Serve:

• Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to slice. Serve with a scoop of vegan ice cream or coconut whipped cream if you like.

Some Store Bought Options for the Perfect Pie Crust

If you’re short on time or prefer the convenience of a ready-made crust, here are some store-bought options that deliver excellent results:

1. Pillsbury Refrigerated Pie Crusts: These are easy to use and have a buttery flavor that pairs well with marionberries. They come pre-rolled, so all you need to do is fit them into your pie dish.
2. Trader Joe’s All-Butter Pie Crust: Known for its rich, buttery flavor and flaky texture, this crust is a favorite among bakers. It’s available in the frozen section and is ready to use after a quick thaw.
3. Wholly Wholesome Organic Pie Dough: This organic option offers a clean, neutral flavor that lets the marionberries shine. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a healthier alternative without compromising on taste or texture.

Troubleshooting and Storage Tips

Troubleshooting Techniques:

• Soggy Bottom Crust: If your bottom crust is soggy, you can try pre-baking it (known as blind baking) before adding the filling. This helps create a barrier that prevents the juices from soaking into the crust. You can also sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs or crushed cookies on the crust before adding the filling.
• Runny Filling: If your filling is too runny, it might be because the cornstarch wasn’t cooked long enough to fully thicken. Next time, make sure the filling is bubbling in the oven before you take it out. If you notice your fresh pie is still too juicy, let it cool completely before slicing to allow the filling to set.

Check out Sallys Video about pre-baking the pie crust:

Storage conditions and methods:

• Room Temperature: You can store the fresh marionberries pie at room temperature for up to 2 days. Cover it loosely with foil or plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, you should refrigerate the pie. Wrap it tightly and it will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days.
• Freezing: To freeze your pie, first let it cool completely. Then wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Your pie will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to refresh the crust.

Creative Recipe Variations and Ideas

I love experimenting with different ingredients and techniques to keep things interesting in the kitchen. Here are a few ways you can switch up your marionberry pie recipe:

• Substitute Blackberries: If you don’t have marionberries on hand, you can easily use fresh or frozen blackberries as a substitute. They have a similar flavor profile and will still give you that deliciously rich berry taste.
• Add Citrus Juice: For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a splash of citrus juice – like orange or grapefruit – to the marionberry pie filling. This adds a bright, zesty note that complements the sweetness of the berries.
• Mini Pies: For a fun twist, make individual mini pies. They’re perfect for parties or as an easy, grab-and-go dessert. Simply divide the dough and filling into small pie tins or muffin cups, and bake pie as usual.

These variations and tips allow you to put your own spin on a classic marionberry pie, making each one a unique and flavorful treat!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Vegan Marionberry Pie Be Served with Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream?

A warm slice of vegan marionberry pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a fully vegan dessert, opt for dairy-free vanilla ice cream made from almond, coconut, or oat milk. The creamy texture and rich vanilla flavor beautifully complement the sweet and tart notes of the marionberries, creating a harmonious and indulgent treat.

Besides Vanilla Ice Cream Which Flavors Go Best With a Fruit Pie?

While vanilla is a classic choice, there are several other ice cream flavors that pair beautifully with fruit pies. For a berry pie or berry mixture pies like marionberry or blueberry, a scoop of lemon or raspberry sorbet adds a refreshing, tangy contrast to the sweet berry filling. For apple or peach pies, cinnamon or caramel ice cream enhances the warm, spiced flavors of the fruit pie. If you’re serving a pie with tropical fruits, consider pairing it with coconut or mango ice cream to elevate the exotic notes.

Should I Use Fresh or Frozen Berries For the Pie?

When choosing between frozen and fresh berries for your pie, it largely depends on the season and availability. Fresh berries are ideal when they’re in season, as they offer peak flavor and texture, making your berry pie taste incredibly vibrant and juicy. However, frozen ones are a fantastic alternative, especially when fresh ones are out of season or less accessible. If using frozen berries, make sure that the berries thaw and drain properly to prevent excess moisture from making your pie soggy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these 3 marionberry pie recipes – The Best Classic Marionberry Pie, Marionberry and Lavender Crumble Pie and Vegan Marionberry Pie – are sure to bring a burst of berry bliss to your kitchen. Each recipe offers a unique twist, from the traditional flaky pie crust to a crumbly, aromatic topping that you are going to love.

As you go baking your marionberry pie, check out the troubleshooting and storage tips I’ve shared in this blog. I hope you enjoy experimenting with these recipes and sharing the delicious results with your loved ones. I would love to hear back from you – you can share your creative variations of marionberry pie recipes in the comments! Have fun baking!