Blueberry Pie Cookies

These Blueberry Pie Cookies are the perfect blend of two beloved desserts: cookies and pies. With their buttery, flaky crust and sweet, tangy blueberry filling, each bite is a delightful combination of flavors. Whether you’re enjoying them as an afternoon snack or a dessert after dinner, they are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Not only are these cookies delicious, but they are also simple to make. The use of pre-made pie crusts makes the process quick and easy, while the homemade blueberry filling adds a fresh, fruity touch. These mini pies are perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a fun weekend baking project with the family. Everyone will love these bite-sized treats!

Full Recipe:

1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 package pre-made pie crust (2 sheets)
1 egg (for egg wash)

1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for sprinkling)

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a small saucepan, combine the blueberries, lemon juice, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and the blueberries start to break down. Set aside to cool.
Roll out the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles from the dough.
Place a teaspoon of the blueberry filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.

Brush the tops of the cookies with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown. Let cool on a wire rack before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 18 minutes | Total Time: 33 minutes
Kcal: 120 kcal per cookie | Servings: 12 cookies

Blueberry Pie Cookies: A Perfect Bite-Sized Treat

Blueberry Pie Cookies bring together the best of both worlds: the warm, comforting flavor of a traditional blueberry pie and the convenience of a handheld cookie. These delightful little treats are not only easy to make, but they also pack a big punch of flavor with a sweet-tart blueberry filling wrapped in a flaky, buttery pie crust. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is accessible to all skill levels and is sure to impress family and friends.

Why You’ll Love Blueberry Pie Cookies:

Quick and Easy: Using pre-made pie crust takes out a lot of the prep work, making this recipe perfect for a last-minute dessert.
Portable: These cookies are great for picnics, parties, or any time you need a dessert on the go. They are small, portable, and don’t require utensils.

Seasonal and Fresh: If you’re using fresh blueberries, this recipe is a fantastic way to celebrate blueberry season! Of course, frozen blueberries work just as well for that burst of fruit flavor year-round.
Customizable: Not only can you play around with different fruits (think raspberries, cherries, or even apples!), but you can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to give the filling a warm, cozy flavor.

Tips for Making Perfect Blueberry Pie Cookies:

Blueberry Filling: Make sure to let your blueberry filling cool before adding it to the pie dough. This helps prevent the dough from becoming soggy during the baking process.

Sealing the Edges: To avoid the filling leaking out while baking, be sure to firmly crimp the edges of the dough with a fork. You can even brush a little water along the edges before sealing for extra security.
Egg Wash: Don’t skip the egg wash! It gives the cookies a beautiful golden color and adds a bit of crispiness to the crust.
Decorative Toppings: For an extra touch of sweetness and texture, sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking. You could also drizzle a simple icing glaze on top after the cookies have cooled for a bakery-style finish.

Serving Suggestions:

These Blueberry Pie Cookies are wonderful on their own, but if you want to elevate them even further, here are a few ideas:

With Ice Cream: Serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert combo.
With Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream is a light and fluffy accompaniment to balance the richness of the cookie.

For Breakfast: These cookies also make for a sweet treat with your morning coffee or tea. They’re a perfect quick bite when you’re craving something sweet to start your day.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips:

Make Ahead: The dough and filling can be prepared up to a day in advance. Simply store the dough in the fridge wrapped in plastic wrap and the filling in an airtight container until you’re ready to assemble the cookies.
Storing: Once baked, these cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to enjoy them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

Freezing: You can also freeze these cookies for up to a month. Freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Fun Facts about Blueberries:

Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and promote good health.
Native Americans referred to blueberries as “star berries” due to the star-shaped calyx on the top of the berry.

Blueberries freeze well and maintain their nutritional value, so they are a great fruit to keep on hand for recipes like this one!

The Inspiration Behind Blueberry Pie Cookies

Blueberry pie has long been a staple in many households, especially during the summer months when blueberries are at their peak. However, not everyone has the time or patience to bake an entire pie. That’s where these Blueberry Pie Cookies come in! They offer the same satisfying flavor and flaky texture as a traditional pie, but in a cute, bite-sized form that’s perfect for individual servings.

These cookies take inspiration from classic American blueberry pie recipes, but with a modern twist to make them quick and easy to prepare. They’re ideal for casual gatherings, holiday dessert tables, or as a fun weekend project to make with kids.

Blueberries: A Superfood in Every Bite

Blueberries are often celebrated as a superfood because they’re packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Incorporating blueberries into your diet can have several health benefits, including improving brain function, supporting heart health, and boosting your immune system. Here’s why you’ll love using them in your recipes:

Rich in Antioxidants: Blueberries are one of the most antioxidant-rich fruits available. These antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, give the berries their deep blue color and help protect your cells from oxidative damage.
Low in Calories, High in Nutrients: With only 80 calories per cup, blueberries are low in calories but high in essential nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and fiber.

Good for the Heart: Studies have shown that regularly consuming blueberries can help lower blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart disease.

By using blueberries in these cookies, you’re not only adding a burst of flavor but also incorporating some great nutritional benefits into your sweet treat.

A Versatile Dessert for Any Occasion

One of the best things about Blueberry Pie Cookies is their versatility. While they’re perfect for casual occasions like barbecues or picnics, they can also be dressed up for more formal events. Here are a few ideas on how to make these cookies the star of any gathering:

Holiday Delight: Add a festive touch to your holiday dessert spread by serving these cookies alongside a larger selection of pies and cakes. Their mini size makes them ideal for sampling.
Giftable Treats: Package a batch of these cookies in a decorative box or tin and give them as a homemade gift for birthdays, holidays, or as a thank-you gesture. Everyone appreciates a thoughtful, edible gift!
Brunch Perfection: Serve these cookies alongside other small bites and breakfast pastries for a delightful brunch treat. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them a hit at any mid-morning gathering.

Pairings and Beverage Suggestions

Pairing the right drink with your Blueberry Pie Cookies can elevate the overall flavor experience. Here are a few beverage options that complement the sweet and tart notes of the blueberries:

Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavors of coffee, especially dark roasts, balance the sweetness of the cookies, making them a great treat to enjoy during a coffee break or after dinner.
Herbal Teas: Blueberry-flavored herbal teas, such as blueberry hibiscus, enhance the fruitiness of the cookies. Chamomile or green tea are also excellent options for a more soothing pairing.

Lemonade or Iced Tea: For a refreshing, summery combo, serve these cookies with a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea. The acidity of the lemonade complements the tartness of the blueberry filling.
Wine Pairing: If you’re serving these cookies for dessert at a dinner party, a glass of dessert wine like Moscato or Riesling can provide a deliciously sweet finish.

Recipe Variations and Customizations

The beauty of these Blueberry Pie Cookies lies in their flexibility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few ways to put your own spin on these cookies:

Add a Creamy Element: Drizzle the cooled cookies with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk, or add a dollop of whipped cream or cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence.
Switch Up the Fruit: Not a fan of blueberries? Try swapping them for other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or peaches. You can even create a mixed berry filling for a colorful twist.
Make It Vegan: If you want to make a vegan version of this recipe, use a vegan pie crust and swap the egg wash for a plant-based milk like almond or soy milk. You can also use coconut sugar or maple syrup in place of the granulated sugar for the filling.

Add a Spice Kick: To give the blueberry filling a warm, spicy note, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. This adds depth to the flavor and makes the cookies even more comforting, especially during the fall and winter months.

History of Hand Pies

Hand pies, like these Blueberry Pie Cookies, have been around for centuries and are believed to have originated in Europe. These small, portable pies were popular among travelers and laborers who needed hearty, filling meals they could eat on the go. They were typically filled with savory ingredients like meat or vegetables, but sweet versions, like fruit-filled hand pies, eventually became a favorite as well.

In the United States, hand pies are often associated with Southern cooking. Iconic recipes like fried apple pies and peach hand pies have been passed down through generations. Today, hand pies remain a beloved dessert option for their convenience and the endless possibilities for fillings. Blueberry Pie Cookies are a modern take on this classic treat, giving a nod to tradition while offering a fun and easy way to enjoy pie in cookie form.

Conclusion

Blueberry Pie Cookies offer a delightful fusion of two classic desserts, combining the sweet, fruity filling of a blueberry pie with the convenience of a cookie. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress your guests or satisfy your personal cravings. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a beginner, this recipe provides the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and simplicity. Try them today and enjoy a delicious twist on the traditional blueberry pie!