This Black Raspberry Pie is the perfect way to celebrate the short, sweet season of fresh black raspberries. The deep purple berries cook down into a jammy, glossy filling that strikes the ideal balance between tart and sugary. Featuring a flaky, buttery lattice-top crust, this showstopper dessert is surprisingly simple to make and works beautifully with either fresh or frozen berries.
Fine-mesh strainer Handy if you want to strain out some seeds (optional)
Large mixing bowl
Sharp paring knife For the lattice strips
Adjustable pie crust shield To protect crust edges from over-browning (optional)
Silicone Basting Brush Set For a smooth, even egg wash (optional)
Ingredients
2unbaked pie crustsHomemade or store bought, for a 9 inch double crust pie
6cupsblack raspberriesFresh or frozen, thawed if frozen
1cupgranulated sugarDivided
1/3cupcornstarch
1/4teaspoonsalt
1/4teaspoonground cinnamon
2tablespoonsfresh lemon juice
1teaspoonpure vanilla extract
2tablespoonsunsalted butterCut into small pieces
1large eggBeaten (for egg wash)
1tablespoonturbinado sugarFor topping
Instructions
Prepare the pie dough: If using homemade, divide into two disks, wrap, and chill for at least an hour. If using store-bought, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to prevent cracking.
Make the filling: In a small bowl, whisk 3/4 cup of the sugar, cornstarch, salt, and cinnamon. Gently fold this mixture into the black raspberries with lemon juice and vanilla. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
Roll and place the bottom crust: Roll one disk of dough into a 12-inch circle and transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish. Trim the excess, leaving a half-inch overhang, and refrigerate.
Fill the pie: Pour the berry mixture into the chilled crust. Dot the top evenly with small pieces of butter. Place the filled pie back in the refrigerator.
Weave the lattice top: Roll the second dough disk into a 12-inch circle and cut into 3/4-inch strips. Weave a lattice pattern over the filling, trim the overhang, fold the bottom crust over the ends, and crimp to seal.
Chill and add egg wash: Refrigerate the assembled pie for 20 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Brush the lattice with beaten egg and sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
Bake the pie: Place the pie on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, then reduce to 350°F and bake for 35-40 minutes until bubbly and golden. Cover edges with a shield if needed.
Cool completely: Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 3 hours before slicing to allow the filling to set properly.
Notes
Keep your butter and dough cold throughout the process for the flakiest crust.
Do not skip the resting time after mixing the filling; it helps the cornstarch activate.
Let the pie cool completely, even overnight, for the cleanest slices.
Use a glass or ceramic pie dish so you can check that the bottom crust is fully baked.
If using frozen berries, do not thaw them all the way; slightly frozen berries release less liquid.
Swap the lattice top for a crumb topping made from flour, brown sugar, and butter for a different texture.
Mix in a cup of fresh blackberries or raspberries for a mixed berry version.
Use a gluten free pie crust to make the whole pie gluten free.
Store leftover pie loosely covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Freeze whole or in slices, wrapped tightly, for up to 3 months.