The Ozark Mountain Berry Pie is a delightful and flavorful dessert that pays homage to the beautiful Ozark Mountain region in the United States. The Ozarks, located primarily in the states of Missouri and Arkansas, are known for their rugged landscapes, lush forests, and abundant wild berries. This pie captures the essence of the region by combining a variety of fresh berries in a delicious filling, all encased in a flaky double-crust pastry.

While the exact origin of the Ozark Mountain Berry Pie remains unclear, it is undoubtedly tied to the long-standing tradition of berry picking in the Ozark Mountains. For generations, families and communities in the region have ventured into the wilderness during the berry season to harvest a bountiful array of blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries. These berries were then used in a variety of culinary creations, including pies, preserves, and cobblers.

Over time, the tradition of making berry pies became an integral part of Ozark cuisine, a symbol of the region’s natural abundance and culinary heritage. The pie’s popularity spread, and it became a beloved dessert enjoyed not only by locals but also by visitors to the Ozarks, seeking to taste the flavors of the region.

The Ozark Mountain Berry Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of the Ozarks’ vibrant landscapes and the connection between nature and food. Each bite of this pie is a tribute to the rich history and traditions of the region, making it a treasured treat that embodies the essence of the Ozarks.

PREP: 15 MIN.

BAKE: 45 MIN. + COOLING

MAKES: 8 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup sugar
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• Dash of salt
• ⅓ cup water
• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• Pastry for a double-crust pie (9 inches)
• 1 cup halved fresh strawberries
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• ¾ cup fresh blackberries
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons butter

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon (if using), salt, and water until smooth.
2. Add the fresh blueberries to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Cook and stir the filling for 2 minutes or until it thickens. Set it aside to cool slightly.
4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Line a 9-inch pie plate with the bottom crust, trimming the pastry to the edge of the pie plate.
6. Gently fold the halved fresh strawberries, fresh raspberries, fresh blackberries, and lemon juice into the cooled blueberry mixture.
7. Pour the mixed berry filling into the prepared pastry-lined pie plate.
8. Dot the top of the filling with small pieces of butter.
9. Roll out the remaining pastry to create a lattice crust or a solid top crust.
10. If making a lattice crust, weave the strips over the filling, or if using a solid top crust, place it over the filling and cut slits to allow steam to escape.
11. Trim, seal, and flute the edges of the pie crust.
12. Bake the pie in the preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
13. Then, reduce the oven heat to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown, and the filling is bubbly.
14. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack.
15. For best results, store the Ozark Mountain Berry Pie in the refrigerator.

Enjoy the Ozark Mountain Berry Pie, a delightful and nostalgic dessert that brings the flavors of the Ozarks to your table!