Berry Custard Pie

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Berry Custard Pie is a deliciously light and creamy dessert that captures the essence of summer in every bite. With its combination of a tender biscuit-like crust, juicy berries, and smooth custard filling, this pie is a refreshing treat for any occasion. Its appeal lies not only in its flavor but also in its simplicity and health-conscious approach. This recipe offers a unique twist on the classic custard pie by incorporating fresh or frozen berries, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re looking for a guilt-free dessert or a show-stopping dish for your next gathering, this Berry Custard Pie is sure to impress.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

1 cup baking mix

1 ½ tablespoons white sugar
⅓ cup milk
½ teaspoon lemon zest

1 ½ cups raspberries
1 cup fresh blackberries
½ cup fat-free sour cream

2 egg whites
½ cup white sugar
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Combine baking mix, 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar, milk, and lemon zest. Press this mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a pie dish.
Sprinkle the berries onto the crust.

In a separate bowl, mix sour cream, egg whites, 1/2 cup white sugar, flour, spices, and vanilla extract. Pour over the fruit in the pie dish.
Cover the edges of the crust with foil.
Bake at 450°F (230°C) for 10 minutes. Lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the center is set.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

Calories: 164
Fat: 1g

Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 4g

Ingredients and Substitutions:

Baking Mix: The base of the crust. You can use any store-bought or homemade baking mix. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free baking mix.
Berries: This recipe calls for raspberries and blackberries, but you can experiment with other berries like blueberries, strawberries, or even a mix. If fresh berries are not in season, frozen berries can be used after being thawed and drained.
Fat-Free Sour Cream: Keeps the custard light and low in fat. Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for a tangier taste and extra protein.

Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth to the custard. Feel free to adjust these to your preference or add a pinch of cardamom for an exotic twist.

Step-by-Step Preparation:

Making the Crust: The crust is made by combining the baking mix, sugar, milk, and lemon zest. Press this mixture into the pie dish with floured fingers to avoid sticking. This creates a sweet, biscuit-like base that crisps up nicely in the oven.

Layering the Berries: Scatter the berries evenly over the crust. This ensures every slice has a good distribution of fruit.
Preparing the Custard: Mix sour cream, egg whites, sugar, flour, spices, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture is poured over the berries, creating a creamy layer that bakes into a custard.
Baking: The pie is baked in two stages—first at a higher temperature to set the crust, then at a lower temperature to cook the custard gently without curdling.

Serving Suggestions:

Toppings: Serve this pie warm or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of berry sauce can enhance the fruity flavor.
Presentation: Garnish with a few fresh berries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

Pairing: This pie pairs well with a light, refreshing beverage like iced tea, lemonade, or a chilled glass of dessert wine.

Possible Variations:

Fruit Variations: Swap out the berries for peaches, plums, or cherries, or create a mixed fruit medley.

Crust Alternatives: If you prefer a different texture, try a graham cracker crust or a traditional pastry crust.
Spice and Flavor Additions: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the custard for a nutty undertone, or sprinkle the top with a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking for extra sweetness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:

Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. The custard may soften the crust slightly, but the flavors will meld beautifully over time.
Make-Ahead: This pie can be made a day in advance. Allow it to cool completely before covering and refrigerating. For the best texture, serve it within 24 hours of baking.

Nutritional Information:

This Berry Custard Pie is a lighter dessert option, containing only 164 calories per serving. With low fat and a modest amount of sugar, it’s a suitable choice for those watching their calorie intake. The recipe provides dietary fiber from the berries and some protein from the egg whites, making it a slightly more balanced treat compared to traditional pies.

Why This Recipe is the Best:

Health-Conscious Choice: Unlike many custard pies that rely on heavy cream and whole eggs, this recipe uses fat-free sour cream and egg whites. This substitution significantly reduces the fat and calorie content, making it a great option for those seeking a lighter dessert without sacrificing flavor.
Bursting with Freshness: The use of fresh or frozen berries not only adds natural sweetness but also provides a burst of flavor with every bite. Berries are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to the pie’s overall nutritional value.
Versatile and Customizable: This pie is versatile and can be tailored to suit different tastes. Whether you prefer the tartness of raspberries, the sweetness of peaches, or a mix of berries, this recipe allows for endless variations. It can also accommodate dietary preferences with gluten-free and dairy-free alternatives.

Ease of Preparation: One of the best aspects of this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. The crust requires no rolling or chilling and can be pressed directly into the pie dish with your hands. The custard filling comes together quickly and bakes to a smooth, creamy consistency.
Low-Guilt Indulgence: With only 164 calories per serving and minimal fat content, this pie offers a guilt-free way to enjoy dessert. It’s perfect for those who want to indulge their sweet tooth while staying mindful of their dietary choices.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: The combination of tart berries and creamy custard is a classic that appeals to a wide range of palates. It’s a beautiful dessert to present at gatherings, and its bright colors make it an eye-catching addition to any table.

Benefits of the Recipe:

Nutritional Value: The berries in this pie are rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and support heart health. Using fat-free sour cream and egg whites reduces cholesterol and fat intake, making this pie a healthier alternative to traditional custard desserts.
Simplicity and Convenience: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced baking skills. With minimal ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, even novice bakers can achieve a delicious result.
Adaptability: Whether you need to accommodate dietary restrictions or simply want to try different flavors, this pie is highly adaptable. Swap out the berries for other fruits, use a different crust, or add spices to make the recipe your own.

Conclusion:

Berry Custard Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors and thoughtful ingredients. By merging the creamy richness of custard with the vibrant tartness of berries, this pie strikes a perfect balance between indulgence and healthfulness. Its biscuit-like crust provides a delightful texture that complements the smooth custard and juicy berries. This pie is an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a sweet treat without the heaviness of traditional custard pies. It offers a wonderful way to make the most of berry season, though it can be adapted to suit whatever fruit you have on hand.

Not only does this pie cater to a health-conscious audience, but it also offers flexibility in terms of ingredients and presentation. It’s a dessert that can be dressed up for a dinner party or enjoyed as a casual weeknight treat. Its ease of preparation makes it accessible to bakers of all levels, and its flavor profile is universally appealing. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream, Berry Custard Pie is a dessert that brings comfort, joy, and a touch of elegance to any meal.