Three Sisters Berry Pie: A Perfect Blend of Berries and Tradition
Three Sisters Berry Pie is a delightful blend of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries wrapped in a tender, flaky crust. Named after the “three sisters” crops in Native American tradition, which represent harmony and sustenance, this pie pays homage to these traditions by combining three complementary berries. Each berry brings a unique texture and flavor, while a touch of cinnamon and apple juice enhances the natural sweetness and fragrance of the pie. This pie is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to summer celebrations, and is always best served warm with a scoop of ice cream.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ⅔ cup vegetable shortening or lard
- 6-7 Tbsp ice water
For the Berry Filling
- 1½ cups fresh or thawed unsweetened sliced strawberries
- 1½ cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1½ cups fresh or frozen raspberries
- 3 Tbsp cornstarch
- ¼ cup apple juice
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
How to Make Three Sisters Berry Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Combine Flour, Salt, and Shortening
- Mix dry ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Cut in the shortening – Using a pastry blender or fork, cut in the shortening until the mixture is crumbly and resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Water Gradually
- Add ice water – Add the water one tablespoon at a time, gently tossing with a fork until the dough holds together. The dough should be moist but not sticky.
Shape into Disks
- Form and chill dough – Divide the dough into two portions, making one portion slightly larger than the other. Shape each portion into a ball, then flatten into disks. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Berry Filling
Toss Berries with Cornstarch and Apple Juice
- Combine berries and cornstarch – In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries with the cornstarch and apple juice. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes; this allows the cornstarch to begin absorbing the berry juices, which will help thicken the filling as it bakes.
Add Sugar and Cinnamon
- Add sugar and spices – Sprinkle in the granulated sugar and cinnamon, and gently mix to combine. Be careful not to crush the berries.
Step 3: Roll Out the Crust and Assemble the Pie
Roll Out the Bottom Crust
- Preheat the oven – Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Roll the larger disk – On a lightly floured surface, roll out the larger pastry disk into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie plate, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Leave about a 1-inch overhang.
Add the Berry Filling
- Spoon in the filling – Pour the berry mixture into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
- Dot with butter – Place small pieces of butter over the filling, which will melt during baking and add richness.
Step 4: Roll Out the Top Crust and Create a Lattice
Create the Lattice Top
- Roll out the second disk – Roll out the remaining pastry disk into an 11-inch circle and cut it into ½-inch wide strips.
- Twist and arrange strips – For a decorative touch, gently twist each strip before placing it on the pie. Arrange the strips over the pie filling in a lattice pattern. Trim any excess and flute the edges to seal.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
Start with High Heat, Then Reduce
- Initial bake – Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes at 450°F.
- Reduce temperature – Lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 55 minutes. The pie is ready when the filling is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
Cool Slightly Before Serving
- Cool and serve – Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
Tips for the Best Three Sisters Berry Pie
Use Fresh or Frozen Berries
You can use either fresh or frozen berries in this recipe. If using frozen berries, do not thaw them before mixing with the other filling ingredients, as they will release more liquid as they bake.
Chill Your Dough
Chilling the dough helps prevent shrinking during baking and ensures a tender, flaky crust. Refrigerate the dough disks for at least 15 minutes before rolling them out.
Prevent a Soggy Bottom
To prevent a soggy bottom crust, you can pre-bake the crust slightly before adding the filling. Alternatively, adding a layer of crushed graham crackers or finely ground nuts on the bottom before pouring in the filling can help absorb extra moisture.
Use a Pie Shield
Cover the edges of the pie with a pie shield or aluminum foil during baking to prevent over-browning. This is especially useful during the final baking stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can make Three Sisters Berry Pie up to a day in advance. Store it at room temperature if serving the same day or refrigerate it if you plan to serve it later.
How do I store leftover pie?
Leftover pie can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or reheat the whole pie in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.
Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, this pie freezes well. To freeze, wrap the entire pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven until warm.
How can I prevent the filling from being too runny?
The cornstarch and apple juice help thicken the filling, but make sure you allow the filling to rest for 15 minutes before adding it to the crust. If you prefer a firmer filling, you can increase the cornstarch by 1 tablespoon.
Can I add other berries or fruits?
Certainly! You can experiment by adding blackberries, peaches, or cherries to the berry mix for a different flavor combination. Adjust the sugar and cornstarch slightly if adding fruits with higher water content.
Do I have to use a lattice crust?
A lattice crust is traditional for this pie, but you can also use a solid top crust with a few slits cut for ventilation. Alternatively, try using cookie cutters to create decorative shapes from the dough and arrange them on top.
Three Sisters Berry Pie is a delicious, fruit-filled dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberries, the tartness of raspberries, and the juicy flavor of blueberries in a beautifully flaky crust. Each slice offers a burst of berry flavor, complemented by the warmth of cinnamon and the richness of butter. Make this pie for family gatherings, picnics, or just because—it’s a recipe you’ll want to return to again and again. Enjoy!